How Blacksmiths Are Revitalizing a Struggling Mall with Unique Artisan Creations

The Drunken Smithy plans to open a mead hall next door pending state approval for its liquor license. Asha Prihar/Spotlight PA

Malls are evolving, and one example is the Lebanon Valley Mall in south-Central Pennsylvania. This once-popular shopping destination is undergoing a significant change.

In a space that used to house Payless ShoeSource and Victoria’s Secret, you’ll now find axe-throwing lanes, a mead hall soon to open, and a forge where visitors can create their own metal crafts.

The Drunken Smithy, which opened in the old Victoria’s Secret spot in 2023, has expanded significantly. Owners Greg Ramsey and Eitri Jones began this adventure in 2016 in Palmyra. They met at Milton Hershey School and bonded over a shared interest in swords, brewing, and forging.

“After years of caring for middle school kids, we were ready for something fun,” Jones said. The name, Drunken Smithy, reflects their playful spirit — although, they clarify, no drinks while forging!

Ramsey brings a rich background from working at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire. He had the connections but needed some blacksmithing skills. Jones, on the other hand, has been tinkering with metal since childhood. They started with combat workshops and moved on to selling swords, eventually adding blacksmithing classes.

Today, they offer hands-on workshops for making everything from knives to swords. Prices range from $160 to $950, depending on the project, and the interest has surged since they reopened after the pandemic shutdown. Their customer base has grown, attracting people from all over Pennsylvania and neighboring states.

Each session is designed to get participants involved quickly. Instructors guide them through forging, grinding, and finishing their pieces. A knife workshop lasts about three and a half hours, while sword-making takes roughly seven hours. “We want it to be an experience,” Ramsey explained, as they emphasize hands-on learning.

Finding a new location was crucial when they learned their Palmyra location would be demolished. The Lebanon Valley Mall fit their needs perfectly with its infrastructure to support a forge. Surprisingly, the mall authorities allowed them to set up shop.

Mall manager Michelle Tuscano noted that traditional stores aren’t as sustainable in today’s retail world. The mall has adapted by welcoming unique tenants like the Drunken Smithy, especially after Lifeway Church moved in.

Like many shopping centers, the Lebanon Valley Mall has seen its share of closures, including popular stores like Bath & Body Works and GameStop. However, Tuscano sees hope in transforming the mall into a community hub focused on experiences rather than just shopping.

The Drunken Smithy enhances this vision with festivals, co-hosting events with local businesses. Their most recent festival featured over 50 vendors, live music, and even a Dungeons & Dragons event. “It’s a bit like a mini Renaissance Faire, but with free entry,” Jones shared.

Looking ahead, they are expanding their offerings, including an “Artisan Alley” for crafts and a mead hall, pending approval. They hope to serve food and feature live music, creating a rich experience for visitors. “We want it to be a fun place, not just a hangout with TVs. It’s about interaction and enjoyment,” Jones emphasized.