Welding the Mackinac Bridge roadway in 1957.
A piece of Bridge Grating I was able to procure.
Mackinac Bridge Grate Damascus
Bringing new life to old steel, all while honoring my Michigan Heritage.
After being inspired by another smith who used Mackinac Bridge steel in his blades, I procured some original grating pieces and used them to create Damascus San Mai, with the Cladding being Mackinac Bridge steel and the core being a mix of high carbon steel, mainly, 15n20, 80crv2, 52100, and others depending on the pattern I am trying to achieve. When etched these contrasting steels reveal a beautiful pattern that is a unique as a fingerprint, with no two blades being the same. I strive to repurpose the steel into something functional and beautiful and to also honor the legacy of the men and women who built the Mighty Mac.
Each blade forged with Mackinac Bridge steel comes with a certificate of Authenticity.