April 2011 Message from Guildmaster

The HCH annual meeting at Fort Roberdeau was the largest attended in the history of the Guild.  The table displays from attending members were outstanding and also included an original horn engraved by the hand of The Pointed Tree Carver.

The meeting was held Friday morning and opened with the presentation of a blowing horn to the Guild by Roland Cadle.  The horn will be used by the Guildmaster to call meetings to order.  Following the presentation there was a moment of silence for recently passed members, Terry Missant, Joe Ruggiero and James Guy along with prayer and the citation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

This year in lieu of presentations, we had Master Horner Benches set-up where they presented most all phases of horn work. This was a big hit; how often can you just ask the best what you want to know? In addition to the interactive Master Horner Benches, Freeman Fred Noesner demonstrated his method to build a powder horn- by feel, as Nosener is blind. Dick Toone was there with his spring pole lathe; it almost ready to turn a horn.

The hot lunches provided by the Fort Roberdeau staff were excellent, and the wine and cheese reception at Village Restorations was above and beyond expectations.  Pam Raub and her staff did a fabulous job putting it together and they deserve our gratitude.

Our annual meeting was not without recognition for those deserving it. The horn competition was one of the most intense in years.  Among the winners was John Proud, who won best of show with an outstanding powder horn.  At the banquet on Saturday evening, Tom Ames was presented with the Guild’s most prestigious award, The Lanthorn Award.  Mr. Ames spoke without notes and from the heart; he showed all attending why he received the award.

Congratulations are in order for Sparks Mumma on his advancement from Freeman to Journeyman.

Steve Pancoe was the lucky winner of the Commemorative powder horn engraved by Mark Preston and Wild Willy Frankfort won this year’s raffle prize.  Oh, and by the way Willy; we promise not to tell your sons that you won.

Regards,
Ed Long
HCH Guildmaster

PS: Enjoy a few pictures from our annual meeting below.

Journeyman Tim Sanner displays his Horn Work.

For a Good Tine call John Proud.