10/26/2026
Yesterday, the farrier industry lost one of its true legends.
It is with heavy hearts that we at the North American Farrier Association (NAFA) learned of the passing of Jim Keith, an International Horseshoeing Hall of Famer, master craftsman, legendary toolmaker, and a man whose contributions to the farrier industry will never be forgotten.
Jim Keith was more than just a toolmaker. He was an innovator, an educator, an artist, and a true craftsman who dedicated his life to the art of forging and the advancement of our profession.
His craftsmanship helped shape the tools used by farriers, and his knowledge and dedication helped shape generations of craftsmen.
Yesterday, an anvil went silent. A hammer was laid to rest. A toolmaker’s forge burned out, but the legacy he forged will continue to burn brightly for generations to come.
On behalf of the North American Farrier Association, our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to the Keith family, his friends, and everyone whose lives he touched throughout his remarkable career.
While the fires of his forge may have gone cold, the impact of his life’s work will never fade.
May Jim Keith’s legacy live on through every hammer that strikes an anvil, every tool that shapes a shoe, and every farrier who carries on the traditions of our craft.
Rest in peace, Jim Keith. 🕊️
A Hall of Famer. A Master Craftsman. A Legend. Never Forgotten.
🇺🇸 North American Farrier Association (NAFA)
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