Blacksmith Philip Simmons & American College of the Building Arts, ORIGINS episode

Summary

This script celebrates the life and work of Philip Simmons, a legendary blacksmith from Charleston known for his distinctive ironwork. From his early fascination with a blacksmith shop at age nine to his apprenticeship at 13, Simmons' journey is a testament to his dedication and artistry. His transition from functional to ornamental ironwork, influenced by German gate makers and local motifs, has left an indelible mark on Charleston's architecture. Simmons' philosophy of creating unique, nature-inspired designs has made him an icon, inspiring future generations of craftsmen.

Takeaways

• 🏠 The unique style and architecture of Charleston are characterized by the individual craftsmanship of its artisans, particularly in ironwork.
• ⚒️ Mr. Simmons' ironwork is renowned and has become a signature style, attracting visitors who appreciate his craftsmanship.
• 👴 Mr. Simmons, at 98 years old, is considered an icon of Charleston, having worked with coal for many years in his shop.
• 🔥 His passion for his trade and the potential health benefits of coal burning have driven his long and successful career.
• 👶 Philip Simmons moved to Charleston at a young age for education and was drawn to the excitement of the blacksmith shop.
• 🛠️ Despite being initially deemed too young, Mr. Simmons began his apprenticeship at 13, learning the trade from basic tasks to more complex work.
• 🎨 Mr. Simmons transitioned from functional to ornamental ironwork, creating a distinctive style that includes elements inspired by nature and local motifs.
• 🌟 His work is not only functional but also artistic, requiring creativity and skill to produce unique, non-repetitive designs.
• 🌳 Mr. Simmons' designs often incorporate low country motifs and are heavily influenced by his observations of nature.
• 👨‍🎨 The speaker, a cousin and apprentice of Mr. Simmons, emphasizes the artistic nature of the work, highlighting the need for creativity and originality in the craft.

Q & A

What is the first thing that comes to mind when people think about Charleston?

Ironwork is the first thing that comes to mind when people think about Charleston.

What is unique about the ironwork of Mr. Simmons?

Mr. Simmons has a very distinctive signature style in his ironwork, which has attracted many people to Charleston to see and touch his creations.

How old is Mr. Simmons and what is his relationship with his work environment?

Mr. Simmons is 98 years old and has spent a significant part of his life working in a shop, which involved burning coal, suggesting a long-term exposure to the environment associated with his craft.

What inspired Mr. Simmons to pursue his passion for his trade?

Mr. Simmons was inspired by his love for his work and the potential benefits he could derive from it, which he pursued with great passion.

At what age did Philip Simmons move to Charleston and why?

Philip Simmons moved to Charleston at the age of nine for a good education, as sent by his parents.

What event sparked Mr. Simmons' interest in blacksmithing?

Mr. Simmons' interest in blacksmithing was sparked when he saw a blacksmith shop with sparks flying and a horse kicking up as he was passing by on his way to Buist School.

Why did Peter Simmons initially refuse to hire young Philip Simmons?

Peter Simmons told young Philip Simmons that he was too young and that the horse would kick him over the moon, suggesting he come back when he turned 13.

How did Mr. Simmons transition from simple blacksmith work to ornamental work?

Mr. Simmons transitioned to ornamental work after a conscious decision, prompted by observing the tides of change in the market, and his first ornamental work was creating a gate for Jack Krawcheck.

What was Mr. Simmons' initial reaction when asked to make a gate?

Mr. Simmons was initially reluctant to make a gate because he had never done it before, focusing mainly on horseshoe and blacksmith work.

How did Mr. Simmons develop his signature style in ironwork?

Mr. Simmons developed his signature style by observing and picking up on the beautiful scroll design that fascinated him, and later incorporating low country motifs like the Heron form.

What influence did nature have on Mr. Simmons' work?

Nature was a significant influence on Mr. Simmons' work, as he believed in the uniqueness of each creation, stating that you can't make two of them alike, just as nature doesn't make two leaves alike.

What is the relationship between the speaker and Mr. Simmons, and how did they start working together?

The speaker is Mr. Simmons' cousin and started working with him at the age of 13, when Mr. Simmons had built his shop in 1967.