Past Times at Glidden: Tinsmithing Day
Schedule
Sun, 26 Jul, 2026 at 01:00 pm
UTC-05:00Location
921 W Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, United States, Illinois 60115 | Dekalb, IL
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The J.F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center invites the public to experience the traditional art of tinsmithing during Past Times at Glidden: Tinsmithing Demos on Sunday, July 26 at 1 p.m.Scott Cochrane of Oak Park will lead live tinsmithing demonstrations and answer questions about his work, tools, and the historic craft of shaping metal into functional and decorative household objects. Guests will learn about the techniques and hand tools traditionally used by tinsmiths, including shears, hammers, stakes, and soldering irons.
Tinsmithing—also known as tinplate working—is the traditional craft of shaping thin, malleable sheet metals, historically tin-coated steel, into practical everyday items. Before mass manufacturing, tinsmiths produced everything from lanterns and cookie cutters to kitchenware and decorative pieces.
Cochrane first discovered tinsmithing through fellow tinsmith Leo Winkler, who invited his family to make cookie cutters. What began as a simple hands-on activity grew into a lasting passion.
“I enjoyed the process, so I would go back every other month to make something different, each time learning a new technique,” Cochrane said. “Eventually I found some tools of my own and started making things at home. This led to an enjoyable hobby for the next 25 years.”
Admission is $5 per person and free for Glidden Homestead members. Admission includes both the demonstration program and a guided tour of the historic homestead.
The program will take place in the museum’s Welcome Center, located at 921 W. Lincoln Highway in DeKalb.
The event is part of the museum’s Past Times at Glidden series, featured within its America250 programming, celebrating traditional crafts and trades that helped shape everyday American life.
For more information, call 815-756-7904, email [email protected], or visit GliddenHomestead.org.
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921 W Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, United States, Illinois 60115Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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