Roye's blacksmithing is for enjoyment only

The word "amateur" literally means someone who engages in an activity for the love of it, rather than as an occupation.

In that sense, Earl Roye is an amateur blacksmith. "I do it mainly because I enjoy it," he said. "I never sell anything. I make things for my friends and family and neighbors."

Roye and his wife Frances spend half of each year in Sparta and the other half — including the winter months — in Jackson, on the other end of the state.

Last weekend Roye was entertaining and educating visitors as part of Brinegar Days, held in and around Brinegar Cabin on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Sponsored by the National Park Service, the event commemorated the Blue Ridge mountain heritage and lifestyle of Martin and Caroline Brinegar from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Along with blacksmithing, visitors could see demonstrations of weaving, lace making and other crafts. Instrumentalists performed traditional music at various locations on the grounds.

Roye does his demonstrations at Stone Mountain State Park and Surry Community College, in addition to those at Brinegar Cabin.