[TheForge] Peter Ross' 1998 ABANA Conference Keynote Speech

[Vincent_Nakovics at nps.gov]

Hi All,

     I want to thank you for bringing this subject up as it afforded me the
opportunity to think about the evolution of my blacksmithing in terms that
I would not have otherwise. I have for years benefitted from advice and
exposure to Peter and the other CW Smiths. I posted Peter's speech on my
new blog and my post telling of the impact that Peter has had on me
personally over the years. I have been told that the Speech is an excellent
read and blog posting Precise Imprecision is a good read as well. Both can
be found at www.happyhavenforge.wordpress.com . The posting is pretty long
and I will post it here soon, hopefully tonight.
     I have on many levels changed the way that I perform the work that I
do and I believe that the Machine Mentality gave way in many small ways to
Hand Mentality for the better. Both for the processes and the finished
products. (reproduction 18th C. cannon carriages). I  have seen and look
for the very things that Peter is talking about in his speech. I find that
there is a lot of machine work being done when there is no need for it and
it does change the appearance drastically. Now  in truth, many people don't
identify the differences, but can tell there is something about the hand
made piece. The "un-uniformity" of  the uniform marks that are on a
chamfered edge, etc.
    Chuck I have to edit the credtis I have attached to the speech. I have
them wrong. Thanks again for posting Peter's Speech. Nice website you guys
have as well.
See ya at Forge!
Vince