Consistency & Trust The life of a farrier and blacksmith

Tamsen Justice, a 26-year-old blacksmith and farrier, has returned to his passion, completing a full circle back to his roots in Magdalena, where he was born and raised.

Along with his girlfriend, Kennedi Wissink, who hails from Nebraska, the couple has combined their talents to embark on an entrepreneurial venture. Just four months ago, they launched their own farrier business dedicated to providing exceptional hoof care for horses.

Justice’s precise craftsmanship as a farrier complements Wissinks nurturing and no-nonsense approach as a handler. This collaboration builds trust with the horses, and enhances each horse’s behavior and comfort over time.

Working with horses doesn’t come without real danger.

“You have to be damn sure careful, that’s why she’s so important, because she holds them for me. The horse handler is almost as important as the guy who shoes,” Justice said, emphasizing the critical role of Wissink in their work.

Wissink has already noticed some of their client’s horses are becoming more comfortable with them with each visit, highlighting the importance of consistency and trust. This growing comfort speaks volumes about their effective handling techniques.

“I can shut down a lot of movement from just the head. The head controls the feet, and especially with younger horses, I train them so that they know what they can’t get away with,” Wissink said.

She added their communication while working with a horse is essential for everyone’s safety and a testament to their synchronized efforts.

“I really like going around with him, and I’ve learned quite a bit. He’s packed a lot of information into my head,” Wissink said. “I feel like we make a pretty good team.”

This mutual respect and continuous learning underscore their successful partnership.

In addition to her work with horses, Wissink channels her creativity into making cinches, as well as handcrafted soaps and candles, adding a personal touch to their venture.

Justice’s journey began with formal training in the Journeyman Farrier program at an Idaho horseshoeing trade school, where he honed his horseshoeing skills.

“I actually didn’t grow up with horses. I only started being around them when I was about 16,” Justice said. “A guy down the road, Mark Chavez, has sons who are like brothers to me. I grew up with them, and Mark works with a lot of cutting horses.”

This early exposure to horses sparked a lifelong passion. He vividly remembers one day watching Chavez cut cows in his round pen.

“A little voice in the back of my head was like, ‘Pay attention, because you’re going to like to do this one day.’ So I paid attention, and pretty quickly, he started bringing me with him. I was able to work with some horses. It just kind of happened,” Justice said.

During his training, Justice contributed his expertise at the school for another six months, teaching aspiring farriers the intricacies of horseshoeing.

“That’s why I was glad to stay and work at the school. They say the best way to learn something is by teaching it to someone else,” Justice said.

However, a negative experience with the school’s owner forced him to take a two-year hiatus from horseshoeing, redirecting his focus back to Magdalena where he found himself working on a ranch.

Yet the call of the forge was too strong to resist. Determined not to work under someone else’s direction, Justice reignited his passion as a farrier and began his business, dedicated to providing the highest quality horseshoeing services. His determination speaks to his unwavering commitment to his craft and his desire for independence.

Justice understands the vital role of custom horseshoes tailored for various corrective needs. He revels in the craftsmanship involved in blacksmithing — each shoe meticulously forged with skill and physical effort. He said that he values the lessons learned from seasoned blacksmiths who mentored him and is devoted to refining his craft.

Notably, he participates in horseshoeing competitions, showcasing not only his technical prowess but also the artistry and dedication that define this noble trade.

But at the end of the day, for Justice, it’s all about the horses.

“I just like helping horses. I like watching them walk away happy. That’s probably my favorite part about it,” Justice said, expressing the profound satisfaction he derives from his work.

Justice and Wissink live in Hop Canyon and serve clients across a large territory, including Truth or Consequences, Carrizozo, Socorro, Albuquerque and other rural and remote areas of New Mexico.

Their willingness to travel reflects their commitment to serving a wide range of clients. They note there is a lack of farriers in some regions, and clients appreciate it when someone is willing to travel to these areas, filling a crucial need in under-served communities.