TEXAS BLACKSMITH CONFERENCE, ANTIQUE GAS ENGINE REUNION THIS WEEKEND IN LA GRANGE

  

This weekend, the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center (TCHCC) in La Grange will host a blacksmithing conference and gas engine show.

The Texas Blacksmith Conference and the Hume L. Baker Texas Antique Gas Engine Reunion will be held Friday and Saturday at the TCHCC village grounds, beginning at 9 a.m. each day.

The blacksmith conference, previously held in College Station, will showcase blacksmith demonstrations, vendors, and an iron smelt.

Meanwhile, this is the first time that the Gas Engine Reunion will be held.  The show, named in memory of longtime engine collector and restorer Hume L. Baker of Sheridan, will feature gas, steam, hot air and oil engines operating, along with some powering equipment.

The TCHCC will be open for touring.  The Zapalac Saw Mill and the Czech Newspaper Museum will be in operation.  Concessions will be available, and a live auction will take place just after noon on Saturday with handmade blacksmith items.

Proceeds generated from the event will benefit the future TCHCC Blacksmith Shop construction.  The Blacksmith Shop will be a working museum, and will hold events throughout the year.

The TCHCC complex is located in La Grange at 250 West Fairgrounds Road.  In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the Fayette County Fairgrounds.