The Fuzzies had not been away from the farm since we moved here. Our very favorite annual meeting is the Contemporary Longrifle Association held in Lexington, Kentucky, in August. It was a 1,500 mile drive from New Mexico but now an easy 7 hour drive from our little mountain in Virginia. So we loaded up Rufus for his first road trip and took mostly two land back roads to Lexington.The name of the organization is very misleading. Originally founded by those interested in modern muzzleloading, the group has long outgrown that restrictive moniker. The show has grown to several hundred makers of objects relating to the early American frontier, ranging from clothing to paintings. There are, of course, hundreds of superb flintlock rifles about to be seen and fondled, but at least an equal number of tables are devoted to other objects d'arte. To the right and above are some of the knives of Joe Scott. from West Virginia, who makes no-nonsense, plain and serviceable knives that are very affordable. Mrs. Fuzzy has two as paring knives in her kitchen.
To the left are 18th century English style ladies riding habits by Turkey Roost Traders. Mrs. Fuzzy gave them serious patronage with more conservative clothing.
Below is a high art shooting bag shown on a beautifully ornamented chip carved mount made for the purpose.
There are an increasing number of furniture makers present at the show. Ken Gahagan, who also makes historically accurate knives, created a superb high-boy this year; alas, I do not have a photograph. Illustrated below is part of a large display of furniture, from tea-caddies to corner cabinets.
One particularly enjoyable aspects of the meeting is the conviviality enjoyed. We only see each other once a year, all are on good behavior, and jolly faces in all directions - what you wish your high school reunion had been... there is never enough time to visit with all on your list and every meal is spent with friends. Guns and knives all around, smiles, jokes and warm greetings abound. If we could only get away from the farm once a year, this would be our choice of destination.
In the next post, more creations from the show but only Native American objects.
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1 comment:
I would note that Joe Scott's knives are my FAVORITE small knives in the kitchen. The edge stays sharp a long time and their bone and antler handles curve to fit my little hands "just so" when I want to peel an apple or finely slice something. Yes, they are not flashy but a knife doesn't need bling to work right!
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