24 Nebraskaland • May 2025
New Blood
As a child, Bansen frequently visited
Fort Atkinson with family. He became
drawn to the blacksmith shop more
than anywhere else on the fort, and
years later, a college professor noted
Bansen's interest in historical weapons
and armory and connected his student
with a blacksmithing instructor in
2012. Bansen started taking lessons
once a week and, in 2015, struck out
on his own.
In addition to general ironwork,
Bansen's interest lies in making
knives, swords and axes; one of his
favorite creations is a 13th century
knight's arming sword. Bansen fi nds
fascination in the enduring history of
ironwork, its role in the progression of
technology, and the creative outlet the
craft provides. After several years of
encouragement, Bansen fi nally made
the leap to join Slader's fort shop in
2022, following a career change that
freed up more time.
Keefer showed up at Slader's door
with no experience in blacksmithing.
His path to Fort Atkinson came by
way of the Missouri River Outdoor
Expo at Ponca State Park, where he
volunteered at the muzzleloading
station annually with his father
and uncle. During breaks, Keefer
would wander down to the heritage
encampment by the riverfront, where
he befriended several Fort Atkinson
volunteers, including Slader, who
invited him to events at the fort.
In early 2022, Keefer's father and
uncle unexpectedly passed away
within three weeks of each other.
Despite his grief, their deaths spurred
The late blacksmith Tom McDowell speaking to visitors during a living history event. He often sat in this corner,
Slader said, making Fort Atkinson medallions. Visitors who purchased one at the shop could have their initials stamped on it.
