Blacksmithing Classes

Designed for those with an interest in learning the fundamentals of blacksmithing, and/or continuing their education.

Students will learn to light and work with a coal forge to heat metal to more than red hot and then to use hammers and other tools to forge, bend and twist the hot metal to desired shapes.  Students will work hands-on with a coal burning forge and learn to forge iron into useful and decorative items.

Step into Nevada’s mining past with hands-on blacksmithing classes at the Tonopah Historic Mining Park, where participants learn traditional forging techniques using authentic coal-burning forges. Classes are taught by blacksmithing instructor Ramon Fagundo, as well as visiting blacksmithing experts, depending on class offerings and demand.

The classes are intended for adults. However, responsible and well-behaved youth are invited to participate with accompanied, paid adult supervision, after confirming possible registration with staff.

Looking Ahead to 2027!

Our 2026 blacksmithing classes have concluded, but we’re looking forward to another season of hands-on learning!

Interested in joining us next year? Contact the Park to be added to our blacksmithing email list and receive updates when the 2027 schedule is announced.

To get on our schedule please call

Contact us at (775) 482-9274 ext 6 or email us at tonopahminingpark@gmail.com

Sign up for the email list

Email us at tonopahminingpark@gmail.com to be added to our blacksmithing distribution list.

Ramon Fagundo
Blacksmithing Instructor

We are pleased to welcome Ramon Fagundo to the Tonopah Historic Mining Park Blacksmithing Program. Ramon brings years of experience, creativity, and enthusiasm for traditional blacksmithing.

Born and raised in West Virginia, Ramon moved to Nevada over ten years ago. His interest in blacksmithing began in his early teens, and in 2004, he attended the Appalachian Blacksmith Association’s Fall Conference, returning home with tools to begin learning the craft.

In 2018, Ramon met lifelong farrier LeRoy “Doc” Dains, who became his mentor and helped advance his skills. In 2023, Ramon transitioned to full-time blacksmith, craftsman, and artist after working as a lead welder and fabricator at a large-scale production art company.

Today, Ramon teaches and demonstrates blacksmithing at several historic parks, including the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park, where he serves as lead instructor. He also creates handcrafted home goods, décor, and outdoor art. His architectural blacksmithing work can be found throughout Las Vegas, including the entrance gate to Absinthe at Caesars Palace.

Steve Nelson
Blacksmithing Instructor

Steve is a 40 year Farrier out of Fallon Nevada. He has been with the blacksmithing classes for 10 years and has been a great asset to the blacksmithing program.

© 2026 Tonopah Historic Mining Park. All rights reserved.
The Tonopah Historic Mining Park Foundation is a Nevada 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Nevada’s mining history, heritage, and the stories of life surrounding the Tonopah Historic Mining Park. Contributions may be tax deductible under Section 170(c) of the Internal Revenue Code. All contributions become the property of the Tonopah Historic Mining Park Foundation and are used as determined by its Board of Trustees.
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