In 2016 two experiments undertaken to further explore the possibilities of human powered bellows providing air blast for pre-Medieval bloomery iron smelting furnaces. The first used multiple small bellows linked via a central air bladder. This experiment was undertaken at the SCA 50th Event in June. The result was at best a 'proof of concept', but revieled an interesting social dynamic. The second was at the ReARC conference in November, employing elements learned at the ARTifacts - Pruszkow Archaeological Festival in September.

This will be a longer version of the more formal paper preparation for delivery at the next ReARC / ExARC conference (tentatively Fall 2017).

Panelists: Constance Berman (AVISTA), Carla Tilghman (DISTAFF), Frank Klaassen (Societas Magica), Linda Ehrsam Voigts (MEDICA), Darrell Markewitz (DARC)

In this open demonstration, Darrell Markewitz will illustrate the building and firing of a small clay built furnace, firing charcoal. Bronze will be heated and poured into prepared clay and green sand molds to create finished objects. A general discussion will be on going about Early Medieval (Post Roman) bronze casting equipment and methods.