Come join us for the 2026 Gichner Hammer-in. This even will be held on January 2 – 4, 2026 at Eric’s shop. This year’s demonstrator is Drew Alexander.

Drew Alexander discovered his passion for blacksmithing in 2001, later apprenticing at the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton, Virginia. Over the past 24 years, he has honed his craft through self-education, guild involvement, and mentorship from the late Nol Putnam and others. In 2021, he transitioned from a career in construction and sales to pursue blacksmithing full-time, specializing in custom, client-led projects.

Drew and his brothers collaboratively run a family business that includes a lumber yard, mill shop, custom furniture shop, leather studio, and blacksmith shop. Drew manages the blacksmith shop and contributes to the sales of custom furniture pieces.

He also writes narrative memoirs that explore beauty, art, his blacksmithing journey, and lessons from past mentors. On his YouTube channel, Drew shares long-form interviews with fellow blacksmiths. He serves as Chairman of the Board for the Shenandoah Valley Blacksmith Guild of Virginia. Drew lives in Rockingham County, Virginia, with his wife and four children.

You can check out Drew’s work here. And down load the event registration here.