NOVEMBER 2017 • NEBRASKAland 31
Above: Blacksmiths Doug Appel and Lauren Joyce take
advantage of the cool night. These men, including farriers
and armorers, were responsible for nearly everything made of
steel and iron. The fort employed nearly 25 smiths at its height
and produced items such as nails, horseshoes, wagon wheel
bandings, door latches, hinges and farming equipment. They also
repaired weaponry. Today, Fort Atkinson reenactors have learned
this craft to carry on the tradition. Reproduction pieces may be
purchased at the Sutler Store.
Opposite: The Sutler Store offered hundreds of items for sale
to the soldiers and civilians who lived on the fort. It functions
today as a gift shop where visitors may find items made by
Fort Atkinson artisans, including lanterns, animal hides, period
cookbooks, old-fashion candies and jerky, home decor, pottery
and candles.
Left: Tourgoers may pick up a copy of The Military Journal in the
visitor center to read day's news on the fort and commemorate
their time on the Candlelight Tour.
