Master Blacksmith Samuel Yellin
Master Blacksmith Samuel Yellin (1885-1940) of Galicia, Poland, came to America in 1906.
Probably the best known of the European born master blacksmiths in America, Yellin set up shop in Philadelphia in 1909. His last shop was located on Arch Street.
Yellin was a prolific businessman. His shop boasted over 200 employees, forging commissions in decorative and architectural ironwork throughout the United States, several of which can be found right here in Wisconsin.
Pictured here is the front door of the “Sentry Insurance Co.” in Stevens Point, WI. 
Another installation (not pictured) is a fine bronze railing located inside the “Paine Arts Center and Gardens” in Oshkosh, WI. (www.thepaine.org).
Many consider Yellin to be one of the finest smiths of his day, rivaled by only a few, one being Milwaukee’s Cyril Colnik.
For more on Samuel Yellin, refer to the book entitled “Samuel Yellin Metalworker” by Jack Andrews, 1992, Skipjack Press.
……..Dan Nauman
4 comments to “Master Blacksmith Samuel Yellin”
Antonette Matturri - November 20, 2009
I found your site with information about the Samuel Yellin company and had to write to you. I currently work at the Air Force Academy Chapel in Colorado Springs. We have a cross in the Protestant level called the ‘Soaring Spirit Cross’ we are told it was made by Harold Wagoner but we were also told that it was cast by the Yellin company but I can find no information to prove that it is true. I have my doubts since it is cast aluminum. Can you help? Have you heard anything about this?????
bighornforge - November 23, 2009
Hello Antonette,
Your best bet is to contact the grand daughter of Samuel Yellin, whose name is Claire yellin. Claire continues the company her grandfather, and her father Harvey, nurtured over the decades. The name of the company is “Samuel Yellin Metalworkers.” I will e-mail her phone number and address.
…..Dan Nauman
Thomas Forrest - July 15, 2010
Sir,
In the 1980’s I met Mr. Harvey Yellin at an exhibition of his father’s work. The exhibition was held at the Ogelbay Museum in Wheeling, West Virginia. I have made a point of studying S. Yellin’s work ever since and have developed an interest in other iron work. The District of Columbia has many examples of his work. Also, the Frick Museum in New York City has some of his best pre 1914 work.
LTC Forrest
Ashley - November 27, 2019
I am interested in claire yellin’s email also, I recently purchased 180 ft of sam yellin’s rail work.