The Man Behind Our Hand-Forged Ornamental Pieces in Oxford, MI
Dr. Charles “Bob” R. Becker heads White Horse Forge, a business renowned for creating exquisite hand-forged ornamental pieces in Oxford, MI. He is an esteemed equine veterinarian who graduated from the Michigan State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1964. His lifelong passion for precision and creativity is channeled into every piece, reflecting his soul’s craft.
Showcased Across the Nation
Since 1986, Dr. Becker’s work has been exhibited in various venues and universities, including the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, and Louisiana State University. Each exhibit offers a distinct testament to his evolving mastery of metal, underlining his commitment to ornamental forging.
Restoration and Commissions: Preserving History and Fulfilling Dreams
Dr. Becker proudly restored two historic gates at the Cranbrook Educational Community in Bloomfield Hills, MI, breathing new life into these notable pieces. He also created an entrance sign for Lakeville Cemetery in Addison Township, MI.
His work extends to private commissions, from designing and forging signs, gates, and security doors to creating one-of-a-kind fireplace screens, coffee tables, and utensils. Dr. Becker’s equine background lends a unique touch to his hand-forged ornamental pieces, with hoof picks being his specialty.
Teaching: Passing on the Flame
In addition to crafting hand-forged metal products, Dr. Becker enjoys sharing his knowledge, creativity, and masterful techniques with others. He has been a guest instructor at numerous schools and conferences since 1990. These platforms include the Artist-Blacksmith’s Association of North America, the John C. Campbell Folk School, and the Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington, PA.
Accolades: A Mark of Excellence
His hand-forged ornamental pieces earned him the Silver Award from the National Ornamental and Miscellaneous Metals Association’s International Metalcraft Competition in Reno, NV, in 1996. He designed, forged, and installed a pair of driveway gates at his farm in Oxford, MI.
Featured Craftsman
Dr. Becker has been featured in several prominent blacksmith publications, including The Anvil’s Ring (Summer 1996), The Fabricator (July 1996), and Anvil Magazine (July 1999). His inspirational story and exemplary craftsmanship continue to inspire budding blacksmiths and many others who appreciate ornamental forging.
Contact Dr. Becker today for more information about his work.
Words from Dr. Becker
“Although my first love will always be the horse, the art of creating objects with my hands is an essential part of my everyday life. For years, I worked with wood making furniture. In 1980, I discovered blacksmithing. The ability to heat metal and shape it with a hammer and anvil into a work of art or an architectural piece is most rewarding. I studied by myself for two years before taking courses from several master smiths including Francis Whitaker, Tom Joyce, Nol Putnam, Ed Grove and Ivan Bailey. I have had commissions to do railings, gates and other architectural forgings. My favorite work is of the horse’s head.”
– Bob Becker, 2002