Hi All,
I hope the date change is not an inconvenience and everyone can still attend.
A couple of fellows who haven't attended our annual get-together have asked what's to be expected. It's a little different each year, as it depends on who attends and what they bring with them, but here's my take on it. Others are welcome to chime in.
This is a very informal affair. I like to call it a get-together, rather than a “Meeting”. Meeting just sounds so formal. The attendees are mostly members here on ALR, but that’s not required. Anyone that’s interested in long rifles and such is welcome. There is no admission fee, but we will accept donations to the Ft. Boonesborough Foundation.
Some years ago, a couple of friends and I made the pilgrimage to Dixon’s Fair. On the long trip home, we were talking about all we had seen and done. And one of the highlights for each of us was the gathering each evening of like-minded fellows around the picnic table behind the motel where we stayed. We decided we should do something similar, but closer to home, and that’s how this get-together came about.
Our gathering is just an opportunity to meet other ALR members from the area and see and discuss what they are working on, share ideas, get opinions, learn a new skill, etc. I always ask attendees to bring something to show. Could be a gun, horn or bag project in progress, recently completed pieces, a demonstration of a technique, tool or skill. Items for sale or trade are welcome too. Occasionally, members have brought antique guns, which is always a treat.
There are usually 10 to 15 fellows that attend. Wives and kids are welcome, but may get bored, as there's not much else to do but look at long rifles and related things. I will be there by 9:00am and our host will probably have coffee made and a nice fire going in the fireplace by then. Members will begin to trickle in. Old friends are greeted and new friends are met. Around noon, we will lock up the blockhouse and drive to an area restaurant for lunch, and afterwards return to the fort for the afternoon.
Hope you can make it. I look forward to meeting you.
-Ron