New Orleans Blacksmith Restores Historic Ironwork From 1790s Plans

The iron fences, gates, and balconies that define New Orleans architecture have endured centuries of fires and hurricanes. Preserving these structures now depends on the small number of artisans still practicing traditional blacksmithing in the city.

Darryl Reeves operates Andrew’s Welding and Blacksmith Shop, where he continues a family trade. His grandfather was also a blacksmith, and Reeves recalls being sent away from the shop as a boy. He watched the workers beat metal and fly sparks, an experience he credits with shaping his career. "We used to just pass through and just watch these guys beat on this metal with the sparks and all," Reeves said. "I think that had a lot of influence with me enjoying to work with metal."

Reeves creates custom pieces ranging from iron hinges to hand-forged metal leaves. He also forges his own tools. His work includes restoring historic structures throughout the city. One notable project involved the fence in front of the Cabildo. Reeves used construction plans from the 1790s to guide the restoration. "That’s learning from the past. That’s given a conversation with the person that actually fabricated it," Reeves said.

A new generation of craftsmen is entering the trade under Reeves' guidance. Karina Roca, an apprentice at the shop, moved to New Orleans from Boston. She discovered Reeves through a PBS program aired more than 10 years ago. "Well, I’ve always secretly wanted to be an iron worker," Roca said. "And then I saw a PBS program on Darryl Reeves over 10 years ago at this point, and I was like, ‘Yep, I’m going to study under that guy.’"

Roca has worked in the blacksmith shop for five years. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in historic preservation at Tulane University. She views the work as a way to maintain the city's visual identity. "It works in so many ways to kind of keep this aesthetic of New Orleans alive," Roca said. "It’s very Spanish. It’s very West African. It’s very French. So it’s sort of this symbol, this beacon of a space where all of these cultures have come together for centuries now."

The shop produces specific repairs and new designs that match the city's historic look. Reeves focuses on transforming raw metal into functional and decorative items. The work preserves the physical structures that have survived major disasters. It also maintains the cultural traditions embedded in the city's built environment.