ONEONTA - A Buffalo blacksmithing program that turns destroyed firearms into garden tools and works of art will bring its message of peace and nonviolence to Oneonta on Sept. 19.
RAWtools Buffalo, led by Mark Stradley, will present its work and conduct a live blacksmithing demonstration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First United Presbyterian Church, known as the “Red Door” Church, at 381 Main St.
The free event is open to all ages.
Stradley, a school counselor in the Buffalo Public Schools, taught himself blacksmithing in 2019 as a way to respond to the effects of gun violence and explore alternatives to violence and conflict.
RAWtools uses donated firearms that have been rendered permanently inoperable and reshapes them through blacksmithing into garden tools and other objects. The organization also uses the process to encourage discussion about nonviolence, conflict resolution and peacebuilding, while honoring people who have died as a result of violence.
The Oneonta demonstration will include a presentation about RAWtools followed by a live forging session. Attendees will have an opportunity to work alongside the blacksmiths at the anvil, using a hammer to help reshape a destroyed weapon into a new object.
The program draws on the biblical imagery in Isaiah and Micah of turning weapons of war into agricultural tools. RAWtools applies that concept literally by transforming destroyed weapons into objects intended for constructive use in the community.
The First United Presbyterian Church is inviting residents of Oneonta and surrounding communities to attend the presentation and participate in the demonstration.
Event Details
What: RAWtools presentation and live blacksmithing demonstration
When: Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: First United Presbyterian Church (“Red Door” Church), 381 Main St., Oneonta
Cost: Free
