Francis Whitaker

Francis Whitaker (November 29, 1906 – October 23, 1999) was a blacksmith in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, where he established The Forge in the Forest.

The American Craftsman-style cottage is located on the west side of Mission Street, the second house north of Vista Avenue.

[5][6] Whitaker completed the five engine bay doors and inside iron handrails for the Carmel Fire Station in 1937.

[7][8] During World War II, Whitaker was hired by the US Navy to teach welding at Naval Base San Diego.

[4] The Francis Whitaker Blacksmith Shop at the John C. Campbell Folk School is named in his honor.

[3] He served on the Carmel City Council for 13 years helping to preserve Big Sur and Point Lobos.