Wagon Wheel Forge & Gallery

When we entered the WWFnG it (sounds dirrty, doesn’t it… and you know that — IT IS!), we met Linda Robinson as we looked around the quaint shop full of metal art, knives, utensils, steak turners (which I bought for my BiL shaped as a Longhorn… get some!). Thru a window, we could see a man out back that labored over a forge and an anvil — pound. pound… POUND!
Now I love metal working, but I was not going to force myself on these kind folks. Thankfully, the blacksmith quit pounding and quickly invited our entire group out back to see him at work with his craft. Lonnie Robinson kindly introduced himself to everyone, and extended a large, strong hand to each of us. From there, he began a wonderful series of stories over the next 10 minutes that covered a variety of topics; His former life as an auto-​body expert. The history of blacksmiths and of Ben Wheeler. Young love. Age and wisdom… and the stories captivated us while he worked. (I could tell we were captivated because it was the first time my kids were quiet the WHOLE DAMN TRIP)!
At the end of the 10 minutes at the forge, he had transformed a 6 inch piece of raw, black steel — using only heat, his hammer and an anvil — into a small, but beautiful calla lily — which he presented to my Mom. It was seriously cool moment from a guy that knows how to work his craft — AND his audience. It was a treat for children of all ages.
If you make it to Ben Wheeler, TX, you must stop by WWFnG and catch the Lonnie Robinson show!