John Steppe, Blacksmith

     John started his Blacksmithing journey back in 1999. After watching a friend make knives, he was fascinated with the many ways to shape hot metal. Starting small, John helped out around the shop occasionally, but the Blacksmithing bug had bit him. Starting his apprenticeship was the spark to begin mastering this skill, and the prelude to travel and adventure. 

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     John started attending regional Blacksmith meetings, where he watched and learned from many other blacksmiths. He is one of the founding members of the Indiana Blacksmithing Association satellite group in Vigo County, Indiana, called the Wabash Valley Blacksmith Shop. This club has grown and evolved into a group that now meets in historical Fowler Park, in the Conley Blacksmith Shop.

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John's enthusiasm, however, demanded he keep moving forward, and through the years our budding Blacksmith was not only learning, but also teaching. With his passion and dynamic instruction, he focused on spreading interest in the younger generation. It is no small feat then to say that John Steppe had, in 2004, "single handedly gotten the Blacksmithing project in Vigo county 4-H started" (David Childress, RockyForge.org newsletter, "State Fair 2007"), and now the call had been given for others to follow along. 4H Blacksmithing has spread to over 14 counties in Indiana.

 With so many 'irons in the fire,' John now needed a home for his quickly building profession. In January 2005, Cool Creek Forge was born. 

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Invited to demonstrate at a Civil War Reenactment event, as a representation of a Blacksmith of that time, a brand new era had begun. For the next two summers John worked at the authentic 19th Century living history museum, Billie Creek Village. This 70 acre historical park is situated on the tourism route designed to visit the last of the State's surviving Covered Bridges. John continued to demonstrate his craft, perfect his skills, and often sold his wares. This venue provided the perfect avenue to not only illustrate the magic that is iron working, but also to provide items that are well made in the traditional fashion - by hand.

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In 2006, John was awarded the inaugural Blacksmith of the Year award from the Indiana Blacksmithing Association for his work with kids in 4H. In a 2018 article ("Hot Hands," Helen E. McKinney, roundaboutmadison.com) Steppe says, "I love teaching blacksmithing...I really like the interaction; you don’t have to buy something to interact.” This dedication to educating the public, especially youth, is really what has set him apart all these years. His exposition style is not only informative but interactive as well. “That’s what he’s known for; he’s all about education. It’s fun to watch him work,” (Jenny Straub, Madison Chautauqua co-chair.) If you'd like to join in this experience, come visit John and Cool Creek Forge at any of the events he participates in. One of the unique offerings you'll find is what he calls 'Make and Take,' where you, the buyer, step into the Forge with the Blacksmith and get a hands on experience of helping to make your own item. In this way, you not only get a cool 19th Century style souvenir, but an awesome story as well! John offers a rotation of Blacksmith craftsman the chance to participate in all of these events. (Contact Us if you are interested in volunteering or lessons in Blacksmithing or Welding.)

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Cool Creek Forge, through hard work and dedication, has grown rapidly and expanded to include  custom ironwork (See Gallery for examples) and he sets up various demonstrations throughout the Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Michigan and Ohio region. John does up to 20 Civil War re-enactments and modern festivals each year, in addition to custom projects at his home forge. He will always continue learning and inviting others to join him. His love of the craft will keep his forge running for many more years to come. 

 

Check out his schedule of Events! Come by and visit if you're in the area to get a fantastic demonstration, purchase some much needed items, and perhaps learn a thing or two! Period-appropriate dress isn't necessary, but it is welcome!

At this time we do not make knives or axes, there are many qualified Bladesmiths, and we encourage you to support those Craftsman. We do welcome your business, however, for general custom work.  

For custom orders, please Contact Us!

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John can be contacted at Blacksmith@coolcreekforge.com or (317) 495-2727 and is available for demonstrations and lessons.