Artisans forge new home
West Whiteland — A business built on the craftsmanship of hand-forged metals will be setting up operations in the newly renovated historic barn in Main Street at Exton.
Wendell August, whose artisans create jewelry, plates, bowls and gifts one-at-a-time, using hammers and anvils, expects to be opening its forge and gift shop in the restored 19th-century barn in May, according to Vicki Knaup, director of retail at Grove City-based Wendell August.
“We’re thrilled with the area,” Knaup said. “We’re so excited. We’re the last forge in America that does this.”
The company, founded by Wendell McMinn August, a coal broker, in the 1920s, is based in western Pennsylvania.
It has retail and forge operations in Grove City and Berlin, Ohio. Knaup said the company looks forward to introducing new audiences to its heritage craft.
Wendell August was attracted to the field stone bank barn because of its history, and how it complemented the traditional artistry of the company, according to Knaup.
Wendell August will occupy the first floor of the approximately 11,000-square-foot barn.
Knaup said the space features large windows where the forge will be so passersby at Main Street at Exton can watch as each piece is crafted. Behind that will be the retail operation.
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