Vera Walker
The Kamloops Gun and Antique Show at the McArthur Island Sports Center in Kamloops on April 27 and 28 was one of the largest of its kind in B.C.
People from North Vancouver, Prince George and Osoyoos to attend. The show opened at 9 a.m. but even at 8 a.m. lineups were already wrapped around one corner of the venue. Luckily the weather was sunny, warm but quite windy.
Guns of interest included a 1895 Lyman Special, a saddle carbine in caliber 30-6. Over 3 million were made in the United States, of which 200,000 were sold and exported to the Russian government. Therefore there are so few to be found. This particular one has a cougar carved into the butt end, making it unique and eye catching.
Linda Madden, originally from Clearwater, displayed with her husband their moose antler carvings and chandeliers.
Madden learned a great deal about this artwork by assisting a local artist. She started out on her own 10 years ago. She continued teaching in Clinton, her hometown of 40 years, retiring four years ago to pursue her craft full time. Whistler Art Gallery was the first to carry her work, shortly followed by Banff and Lake Louise galleries. Her and her husband’s art is very unique and beautiful to the beholder.
Another local to be found at the show was Pat Ferguson, author of several books about his adventures in our country as a guide, hunter and, of course, “funny man.” Ferguson grew up on the Douglas Lake Ranch in its heyday, learning about horses and cattle, hunting, the territory and people. He mined for 15 years in Merritt and then in Stuart, B.C. where he started guiding and further adventures began.
Pat travels with Ida, his wife of many years, and ventures to gun shows around the country promoting his book sales. His books are factual and humorous, a must read for any one liking the outdoors and comedy.
I recommend the Gun and Antique Show to anyone, even women like myself who know little about hunting. Next year check it out.