Today we’d like to introduce you to Joshua O’Crowley.
Hi Joshua, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
We have just retired from the Army and moved to Manhattan, KS, in the last year. Our business probably didn’t start in a typical way. 13 years ago, after spending several deployments overseas, we were looking for a way to cope with P TSD. While at a bookstore, we found some books on knife making, and I started making knives in my garage. We then decided to expand and create a business out of it, wherein we did part-time until I retired from the Army. Here in Manhattan, we have expanded it to teaching others the craft and providing a fun atmosphere for others to come into the shop and make their knives. We have expanded the opportunities from knife making to leather work, blacksmithing, making Damascus steel, and even have some kid’s classes.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Building the business we did it slowly while we were in the Army, working it part-time, and that party has gone smoothly. We didn’t want it to get too big too fast because we wouldn’t be able to manage both at the same time. Our biggest obstacle was learning how to balance the business with the Army, deployments, and family. Now we are here in Manhattan and able to focus on it full time we are excited to share with everyone who wants to.xome and learn either for a one time experience or to get started in the craft!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am very proud of my time as a Soldier. I was an Infantryman for over twenty years. Though I had multiple combat deployments, my proudest moments were teaching soldiers skills and watching them succeed in the Army. That is one reason we transitioned from just making knives to providing opportunities for others to come into the shop and make their own. I am, at times, more proud of the knives they make than the ones I do.
What’s next?
Our plans include expanding our business and eventually purchasing our building in Manhattan to operate out of.
Pricing:
- Knives range from $255-$600
- Classes from $205-375
- Our classes include knife making in several forums, leather work, and young adult classes.
- We have one-day classes on Saturday for a fun weekend event.
Contact Info:.
- Website: theogresforge.com
- Instagram: theogres.forge
- Facebook: The Ogre’s Forge FB
