Barry's Friction Fire Intensive Workshop
April 3-5, 2009

Cost: $225

Location:  Cherry Valley

Friction fire is over 300,00 years old and is still used in many parts of the world today, including the USA. It is used in situations of dire need such as a flipped canoe that leaves gear either lost or soaking wet. By the time you dry out your matches or lighter, you could be already drying out by a fire, which you built with or without a knife! Friction fire is a great tool with which to teach respect of conveniences, and the help of others through team-work.

Barry Keegan teaches this course. He has taught fire by friction since 1990. He has learned fire skills from various teachers: Mors Kochanski, Tom Brown, many staff at both the Rabbitstick and the Rivercane Rendez-vous’, and many others since then.

This intensive workshop will teach students the intricate aspects of friction fire with bowdrill and handdrill.  This course includes: hiking and exploration, plant study and identification of prime raw materials, natural cordage firemaking, shaping and using stone tools to carve with speed and efficiency, natural lubricants, tinders, dry materials in all conditions, and much more. Learn secrets of the trade, tricks and shortcuts to become more proficient and learn how to train yourself to master primitive fire technology under all circumstances and conditions, with speed and confidence.

Please note:  Food is not provided in this course, but can be brought, made, or purchased locally.  Also, sleeping arrangements are tenting, or using our heated barn workshop room or any spare rooms at our Farmhouse.  

Arrival: 5 pm, for Registration, Orientation and Settling in.   Class runs for 7-9 pm on Friday, with a full day Saturday, concluding on Sunday at 3 pm.   Please try to arrive on time to avoid missing any of the course!

Apply now!   Course Application