Philip Simmons (June 9, 1912 – June 22, 2009) was an American artisan and blacksmith specializing in the craft of ironwork. Simmons spent 78 years as a blacksmith, focusing on decorative iron work.[1] When he began his career, blacksmiths in Charleston made practical, everyday household objects, such as horseshoes.[1] By the time he retired 77 years later, the craft was considered an art form rather than a practical profession.[1]
Examples of Simmons’ work, including iron gates, can be seen throughout the city of Charleston, South Carolina, as well as the rest of South Carolina Lowcountry.[1] His pieces are displayed at the Smithsonian Museum, South Carolina State Museum, Paris, France, and China.[1](Wikepedia.com)
For the Community Build project this year we fabricated various metal parts, including structural brackets and post bases. This was the first time that most of us had done any metal work. I took inspiration from Mr. Simmons workshop, wich is located right down the street from the school’s workshop in the cigar factory.
Rustin did an amazing job and became our master welder, though we all got to try it out. It is exiting to add welding and metalwork to our growing skill set.