The Granite State Fair is proud to welcome Steve Walthall, a Certified Journeyman Farrier (CJF) with the American Farriers Association, for a special demonstration of his farrier skills. Steve, a seasoned farrier with 27 years of experience, will be showcasing his expertise in horseshoeing on Sunday, September 14th and 15th, starting at 12 PM near the animal barns.
Steve’s journey into the world of farriery began in his late teens. He was offered a job working at Mount Vernon Estate, the home of George Washington, working with all sorts of livestock. Mount Vernon reconstructed a farm exhibit displaying General Washington’s colonial farming techniques to the public. Steve got his first horse driving and ox driving lessons from a man from New Hampshire. It was an intriguing job so close to the Washington D.C. area. Through Mount Vernon’s farrier, Steve developed an interest in the trade.
After attending the Kentucky Horseshoeing School, Steve developed a steady client base, doing the routine but difficult maintenance horses require of their feet, and works with local veterinarians often to treat a huge assortment of lameness issues.
Steve enjoys the 2000-year-old craft of shoeing horses and prefers to hand forge his shoes daily. He remains active in constantly honing his skills in farrier competitions local to him and through the World Championship Blacksmiths competition circuit and attends other continuing education events regularly to stay at the top of his craft. He serves as a tester for the American Farriers Association testing program, and as president of the Virginia Horseshoers Association.
Steve enjoys the bonds and friendships he has with other farriers around the world and loves to share his trade with the public.
In 2016, Mount Vernon asked Steve to hand forge several Bastille keys from steel sourced directly from the USS George Washington aircraft carrier. They were given to President Trump, and President Macron as the two presidents visited Mount Vernon with their wives. A third key currently is out to sea on the USSGW.
Steve and his wife Angela, have two kids in college. His daughter is studying to be a registered dietician. His son is studying business with a concentration in entrepreneurship and recently has shown serious interest in becoming a farrier after completing college.
Steve’s appearance at the Granite State Fair is an event not to be missed! Whether you’re fascinated by horses or intrigued by traditional blacksmithing techniques, this demonstration will offer a unique glimpse into the world of farriery.
