I've been asked about the upcoming WaGS Convention, (on October 10-12 in Erie, PA)., and what they are like. I gave it some thought and the conventions to me are about relationships.
My 1st convention was the one in Chattanooga, TN. I knew names from the forum and FB and that was it. It was kinda nerve wracking, we (the wife and I) had driven halfway cross the country to go to a WaGS convention where we knew....well, nobody. That quickly changed. Those names I knew from the forum and FB soon became faces and friends. There were the seminars; of foundries, of history and discussions. There was a lot to take in. The iron, oh the iron, pieces I'd never seen as I walked among the favorites tables discussing/ asking questions about the pieces with the owners. Amazing. But what continues to primarily motivate us to return to each convention are the people.
My wife isn't a cast iron cookware collector, but she looks forward to every convention to see her friends there. We only get to see these friends in person once a year, there are phone calls, emails and texts, but where we go to meet them are the conventions. So to me that is a WaGS convention; good friends, discussing iron over good food.
If this sounds interesting to you, come join us. One does have to be a WaGS Member to attend, but it is well worth it. Hope to see you there.
