Campus Martius Museum will once again host its annual salute to traditional gunmakers and artists of the Ohio Valley on February 11, 9:30 until 4:00. From the first arrival of the Ohio Company settlers to present day this area has always been the forefront of quality craftsmanship. Firearms were an essential tool in everyday life and used not only for hunting but for competition shooting. The makers of these longrifles took great pride in their workmanship in the same manner as today’s craftsman do their work.

Campus Martius will feature the work of several dozen traditional gunmakers from around the Ohio Valley as well as several other craftsmen who work in the manner of the 18th and 19th century. Many of these artists are nationally recognized for their work which can be found in museums and private collections around the country. Featured along with the gunmakers will be horn makers, hunting bag makers, leather workers, tinsmithing, cabinet making and other allied trades.

Featured this year will be the art of the horn worker. Cattle horns were used in a variety of objects from powderhorns to transparent windows in lanterns, drinking cups, spoons and measures. Many horn workers would decorate their wares with names and other artistic designs. This art was called scrimshaw and added a personal touch to the work. Matt Blosser, a horn worker from Glenmont, Ohio will be demonstrating scrimshaw decoration throughout the day and will be available to answer questions about this lost art.

For questions contact Bill Reynolds at 740-373-3750.