Wendell August Forge's reputation for quality ornamental metalware has its roots in Brockway, where coal worker Wendell McMinn August started the company in 1923, making it the oldest and largest forge in the nation.

Here's a brief look at more than 80 years of history as told on the company's Web site and the Butler Eagle archives:

Blacksmiths handcrafted the first product line, including one-of-a-kind fireplaces and irons, candlesticks, lighting standards, doorknockers, latches, railings, and grills for windows and doors in Brockway.

In 1930, the company created aluminum gates and elevator doors for Alcoa.

When the company did the remodeling of the Grove City National Bank, it was so successful, August relocated to Grove City.

Grove City forge is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

The factory's notable creations were ashtrays on the Hindenburg air ship and plates commemorating the SALT II treaty between the United States and Russia. Other notable works include towel basins shaped like turtles for a pool at one of the Rockefeller homes and customized pieces for firms such as Coca-Cola, Hershey, Walt Disney, Pizza Hut, MetLife and Wal-Mart.

When a bridge in Grove City was renamed in 2001 for Staff Sgt. Shawn A. Graham, Wendell August provided the plaque marking that name.

The process of creating a handcrafted metalwork includes die engraving, material selection and cutting, hammering, surface anvilling, edging, carbon coloring, a three-step polishing process and forming. Some designs like the dogwood endure for decades.

F.W. "Bill" Knecht III acquired the company in 1978 from August's son, Robert August. Knecht operated the company until his death in 2004.

At the time of his death, he was credited with taking the shop from a "mom and pop" variety to a bustling business.

Knecht was a trustee at both Grove City College and Youngstown State University.

The Knecht family still owns the company today.

The company has an additional workshop in Exton and stores in Berlin, Ohio, the Prime Outlets in Grove City. It also has an online catalog.

The company plans to rebuild in Grove City.