Several guys have asked to see photographs of the archery stuff I've accumulated over the years. I joking call the place the "Antique Archery Arsenal" but it's actually been more like a junk yard the past couple of years as things have become more than disorganized. We'll start out with a few photographs, then periodically take some new ones as things are forever being added and reorganized. Maybe this will help push me along to get some of the messes cleaned up...
I will try to arrange these photographs in order as one would walk from wall to wall and display to display
Below Back – 1871-1971 broadheads
Below Right Front – Kodiaks, 1959s on top, 1960s on bottom
Below Right Center – Kodiak Deluxe top 4, others Kodiaks 1961 to 1966
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/b80c63ec.jpg)
Below – 1930 Pre-Bear Grumley Bows and 1930s Bear Products Bows
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2995438f.jpg)
Below – Some 1940s Bear Archery Grumley Bows
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/b9e83354.jpg)
Below Left & Back – Some more 1940s Bear Archery Grumley bows, and other misc wooden recurves in green cases
Below Right – Temporary, inexpensive, adjustable, double sided bow racks with misc bows
Big mess in front of the temporary bow racks
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/f9772109.jpg)
Below Left – Temporary, inexpensive, adjustable, double sided bow racks with misc bows
Below Right – Mostly 1972 & newer broadheads plus some misc
Below Center - A few Super Kodiaks & T/Ds in green cases
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/e2d4f211.jpg)
The next wall is part of the archery library.
The most important part of any collection is having documentation of the era to research and authenticate the items
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/e6d770d5.jpg)
Below Near Rack - Top Kodiak Special Deluxe 1960, Kodiak Specials 1959 to 1967
Below Center Rack - Kodiak Special 1955 to 1958
Below Far Rack - Personal Shooters and Misc Bows
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/bb1d1a8e.jpg)
Still missing a few walls before we pick back up...
Bottom Green Case - William VanVorst's tackle that he used to take Michigan's first deer in their first B&A Season, 1937 license, carcass coupon, back tag, handmade yew longbow, arrow, broadhead, back quiver, 1937 antlers, photographs, and local newspaper clippings and Outdoor Life Magazine article about Michigan's 1937 Bow and Arrow Deer season, known as "The First Season".
Bottom Right Red Bow Cases - 1940s Bear Grumley Bows
Bottom Right Red Arrow Cases - 1870s to 1930s wood arrows.
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/823b2da9.jpg)
Bottom Red Bow Cases - More 1940 Bear Grumley Bows
Bottom Red Bow Case at Far End - Glenn St. Charles Baleen Bows and St. Charles Thunderbirds
Bottom Red Arrow Cases - 1920s-1950s wooden arrows, Bitzenburger Display, ABCC Display. Traders
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/73c1315f.jpg)
Below - Bear Leather Hunting Quivers 1933-1971
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/0BEARQ-2.jpg)
Below Far Rack - 1870s to 1930s Wooden Bows
Below Center Rack - 1870s to 1950s Arrows
Below Near Rack - 1930s to 1940s Wooden Bows
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/8233605c.jpg)
Below Near Rack - 1955 to 1958 Bear Kodiaks
Below Center Rack - 1950 to 1954 Bear Kodiaks
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/c05b4e0e.jpg)
A few individual displays that can not be clearly seen in the photographs taken from a distance....
Ace...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/1.jpg)
Bear... Includes many of Fred Bear's personal arrows including his oldest known big game hunting arrows and one of his kill arrows, Nels Grumley's personal arrows, first broadhead with insert blade that killed an animal, Fred's first broadhead that he hand made, Bear Giant, all known variations of the Pinned Bear, etc...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2B.jpg)
Ben Pearson...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2.jpg)
Below - Henry Bitzenburger's personal T/D bow & most of the his 1930s/1940s broadheads..
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/3.jpg)
Below - One of the folding arrow cases. Left side has 3 1870s arrows Peck & Snyer and E.l. Horsman, arrows of Cassius Styles, Compton, Saxton Pope, multiple arrows of Art Young, Charlie Pierson, Chester Stevenson, & Forrest Nagler...
Right side contains mostly 1920s arrows, several California By-Products with original broadheads, Krieger, Sportsmans, William VanVorst, Ken Wilhelm, Walt Wilhelm, The Archers Company, Harry Hobson, Earl Grubbs, Glenn St. Charles.
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/ARO-CASE.jpg)
Below - Old fish point collection photograph. Display needs to be expanded and new photograph taken...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/FISH-1.jpg)
Twelve cases of 1871-1971 Broadheads not on arrows...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/4.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/5.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/6.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/7.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/8.jpg)
Now that's dedication. Great pics.
Thats one heck of a collection ... thanks for sharing.
Thanks Wade
That's the chit there. Good stuff Wade thanks for sharing.
This is how it should look when you get it all organized............a place for everything and well, you know the rest.
(http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q291/bjornweb/DSCN1012.jpg)
Wade, that is sure a fine collection,somthing to be very proud of.thank you for the pics.
Bjorn,yours is cool too.Something most of us can relate to. :goldtooth:
Bjorn - I feel so much better now. I may not even try to clean up these piles of stuff...
This is a continuation of broadhead case photographs as the previous edited post exceeded the number of images allowed per post...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/9.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/10.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/11.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/12.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/13.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/14.jpg)
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/15.jpg)
Breathtaking. Just incredible. A life's work.
I vote for even more time on the next book(s). Sleep is overrated.
Simply unbelievable! What a fabulous collection! I seem to recall you saying at one point that you had 800 bows. I envisioned cord wood stacked in the garage. What beautiful displays!! You can be justly proud of such a fine collection. Should be a wing of the Smithsonian!
--Larry
WOW.................................
Wade, Thanks so much for taking the time to take pics and share. Love seeing them all.
Fantastic to say the least!!
I posted this early this monring and I have no idea where it went ? no kidding.I posted something on here went back and read it again and now its gone.
Man I gotta start getting some sleep at night what the heck.
Anyhow it said something like Wade that is a fine fine collection hats off to you my brother I know how hard you've work over the years to put it all together OUTSTANDING COLLECTION.
I want to thank you for the pics and also the help and info you give us here on this forum .
OK then it said something like Wadester I love you man you rock.Ph.d Archer Bowmen
Guys - Thanks for all the kind words. Glad you like the photographs. Will try to clean things up enough to get shots of the rest of the displays.
1950-1953 Kodiak - Static Recurves
1950 - 62", 64", 66" - Woven Glass Back, Alum Lam under Maple Belly
1951 - 62", 64", 66" - Blond Glass Back, Alum Lam under Maple Belly
1952 - 62", 64", 66" - Blond Glass Back & Belly
1953 - 62", 64", 66" - Red Glass Back & Belly
1953-1/2 - 64" - Red Glass Back & Belly, Double Shelf (other lengths may exist)
(http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z117/katswal/K50-53B_zps759be709.jpg) (http://s190.photobucket.com/user/katswal/media/K50-53B_zps759be709.jpg.html)
(http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z117/katswal/K50-53C1_zpsc57e4ebc.jpg) (http://s190.photobucket.com/user/katswal/media/K50-53C1_zpsc57e4ebc.jpg.html)
1954-1956 Kodiaks - Double Shelf - Early Working Recurves
1954 - 56", 60", 64", 68" - Tan Glass, Walnut Riser
1954 - 56", 60", 64", 68" - Tan Glass, Maple Riser
1954-1/2 - 60", - Tan Glass, Maple Riser, (other lengths may exist)
1955 - 56", 60", 64" - Brown Glass, Water Transfer Decals
1956 - 56", 60", 64" - Brown Glass, Silk Screens
(http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z117/katswal/54-56A_zps010f3b24.jpg) (http://s190.photobucket.com/user/katswal/media/54-56A_zps010f3b24.jpg.html)
1957-1958 Kodiaks - Single Shelf - Early Working Recurves
1957 - 56", 60", 64" - Brown Glass, Single Shelf
1957 - 56", 60", 64" - White Glass, Single Shelf, Indented Belly
1958 - 56", 60", 64" - White Glass, Protruding Belly, Scalloped Sight Window
1958 - 56", 60", 64" - White Glass, Protruding Belly, Rounded Sight Window
(http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z117/katswal/57-58B_zpsb914cf39.jpg) (http://s190.photobucket.com/user/katswal/media/57-58B_zpsb914cf39.jpg.html)
1959-1960 Kodiaks - Brown Glass Back, Carmel Belly
1959 - 60", 64" - Bubinga Sight Window, Brown/Red/White Overlays
1959 - 60", 64" - Dark Rosewood Sight Window, Brown/Red/White Overlays
1959 - 56", 60", 64" - Maple Sight Window, Brown/Red/White Overlays
1959 - 56", 60", 64" - Purple Heart Sight Window, Red/White Overlays
1960 - 56", 60", 64" - Rosewood Sight Window, Black/White Overlays
(http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z117/katswal/59-60A_zps5aa48cd7.jpg) (http://s190.photobucket.com/user/katswal/media/59-60A_zps5aa48cd7.jpg.html)
(http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z117/katswal/O-LAYS_zps228424cb.jpg) (http://s190.photobucket.com/user/katswal/media/O-LAYS_zps228424cb.jpg.html)
1961-1966 Kodiaks
1961 - 60" - Green Glass
1962 - 60" - Gray Glass
1963 - 60" - Gray Glass, Dogleg
1964 - 60" - Gray Glass, Horn Back, Solid Riser
1965 - 60" - Olive Gray Glass, Horn Back, Angle Stripe Riser
1966 - 60", 64" - Brown Glass, Horn Back, Angle Stripe Riser
(http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z117/katswal/61-66B_zpse1e896ca.jpg) (http://s190.photobucket.com/user/katswal/media/61-66B_zpse1e896ca.jpg.html)
man o man, a lot of history there for sure.
.This is why I'd never, never argue with Wade about anything archery. Thanks for the look-see Wade; we're all lucky you got this together. Grant
Wade - Outstanding collection -- second to none! I am very impressed! TC
Outstanding...what a collection. That would be something to see in person, what time does the doors open to the museum?
Wade, I have an empty room in my basement that will hold all your over flow.Its yours if you want it.No charge......Let me know
Real nice....
Awesome! The words Archery Museum come to mind! I'm honored to have made a small addition to that impressive display. CKruse
That is incredible! :thumbsup:
First, let me say WOW!!!!!
Second, thanks for the tour.
Okay let's play a little game. If you could only keep one item from that entire collection/museum, what would it be?
Trap
Thanks for the photo-tour. Very nice.
I will keep your collection in mind the next time I think I have too many bows that I don't have time to shoot:-)!
RonP
That is unbelievable. You could have tours. Ken
good gosh man you got the whole bear warehouse!!! that is awsome!!!!you made me drool a mouth full of snuff out :o :notworthy: .my dad bought me my first bow a bear bow a green fiberglass recurve late 70"s early 80"s,from an archery shop in birmingham i think it was called bates archery and i remember seeing photos of him and Fred on hunts.
hey wade im looking for a very nice 1971 kodiak or super kodiak ,that was the year i was born,to take out hunting .you know where i can find one?
QuoteOriginally posted by TRAP:
...
Okay let's play a little game. If you could only keep one item from that entire collection/museum, what would it be?
Trap
Trap - That is is tough question...
Let's see, it would have to be the key to the door...
If I could only keep one bow, it would probably either Fred Bear's personal Grumley or the Snake Skin Back Grumley in this photograph that I just added to the first post on this thread...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/b9e83354.jpg)
hey Wade I wanted to make sure I got my post in. You know just in case I did say just in case you were maybe rewriting your will.Once again I love ya man your soon to be son Ph.d Archer Bowmen
Wade....
How large is that room? Or is it more than one room?
I suspect that's more pure archery equipment than even Fred had in his museum...Fantastic!!!
Tom I.
Wade, Any chance for a few more photos of your archery library -- as you know, I collect primarily books and am always interested in other archery collectors' libraries. TC
Tom - It is the entire 2,000 square foot basement, with some separating walls but no doors or doorways, sort of one continuous open area. Haven't got all the photographs taken yet, as there are still some very messy piles that need to be cleaned up. There are also a few unorganized storage areas of extra stuff.
Tox - We should ask you to post photographs of your archery library. I'm certain your library is far more extensive than mine.
Wade most impressive collection. Thanks again, look forward to more pics,
Wade, I don't know about that -- your archery library is huge as well as comprehensive. My library is scattered in bookcases and drawers all over the house not to mention the ephemera which is stored in a number of places in plastic containers. You have, literally, a museum. It's really cool! TC
Here is some of the controlled mess... Sort of the cord wood that Larry spoke of earlier.
Seven pairs of 5/8" x 16" dowels with extra bows that need a new home...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/e1c4c9a9.jpg)
A few more of the 5/8" x 16" dowels of extra bows on the opposite wall...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/59f99c08.jpg)
Seven more sets of dowels on an unfinished wall, mostly extra bows that also need a new home...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/3dd4afed.jpg)
This box of bows is even less organized than the dowel approach...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/79c17cec.jpg)
Wade is the Mack Daddy!
Gee, even your "cord wood" is pretty well organized. I'm extremely impressed. Thanks for sharing these pictures with us!
--Larry
Nice!
all I can say is WOW
Wade, If you dont want those Bear 76er's let me know.. I am looking for a few of them..
Cody
P.S great pics Wade,
It worths a tour from Italy to Nebraska,congrats and thanks for sharing all your informations.Felix
I've pretty much followed this thread since the first day you posted, Wade. I've started to post my thoughts several times, and can't quite put them to words. I feel honored to be able to see so much archery history for free. I know it's not like being there, as we can't see every individual piece, but it's still stunning. I would consider seeing this collection in person as the eighth wonder of the world.
Not only have you amassed a wonderful collection of archery history, but the hours of photography you have logged as well as the research and documentation. Having met you at Comptons, and spending time listening to the passion you have for this sport, it doesn't surprise me the collection you have. I'm still amazed at seeing it all.
All I can say is I hope to see it all someday!!
Wade,I'm looking for some Barns items If you ever dig anything up along that line.Very impressive collection.PS Still waiting for your book.I have Dominos Pizza on hold for the big occasion...Rick....
Wade,
You've left me speechless. I've just been looking/lurking in awe for the past few days and finally by page 4 I can say I will be heading to Nebraska someday just to see it in person!
From the simple things like I remember that KM lamp (or one very similar at Floyd's), to just 'wow' what organization you have!
Your museum is just amazing man! I can't thank you enough for organizing, recording and displaying that history for what ultimately amounts to the benefit of the archery history community.
Thanks Pal!
Bernie
So how much is admission, and what are your hours?
Excellent collection Wade, how long have you been collecting? What were some of the first archery items that got you started?
Tim
Wade, your pictures did good, because I could show the wife, that the few things I may have collected, are not worth being worried about ...!
With all the information you provided as which wall or corner is pointing in what direction, I thought if I should print out the pics and glue them to a styrofoam replica of your basement, so I can "walk through" your collection!?
Maybe you should get in contact with someone who can do a full 3D-scan, or panorama photos, like the Google Earth "street view" feature? This would make a nice virtual museum too.
I specially liked the bow string collection left from your personal shooters!
:notworthy:
Falk
Falk - Great idea to use a panorama photograph. After posting the images, I realized I should have just started at one point and went around all the walls in order. Haven't posted images of a few walls, as they haven't got straightened out yet.
Tim - No charge for admission. Guys who visit usually spend a weekend or at least over night. We can find a place for you to sleep here. I started in archery in 1958 as a kid and always hoarded all the archery tackle I could lay my hands on. In the 1970s, I joined the Broadhead Collector's Club that was formed in 1974. Although back then most broadhead collectors focused on just collecting broadheads, I collected archery books, magazines, catalogs, old bows, quivers, arrows, fish points, fletching tools, and nearly anything else that was old. I traded broadheads for a lot of paper items and other old archery tackle. Many years ago, I remember telling a bow collector, that I was not really a bow collector. When he discovered I had over 300 bows, at that time, he told me I was a bow collector if I wanted to admit it or not. What were some of the first items that got me started collecting? Guess since 1958, I'd always saved all the monthly issues the NFAA's "Archery" magazine and organized them by month and year and frequently read, re-read and re-re-read them over and over. Early on, I completed that set back to Feb 1944. Those 1940s and 1950s "Archery" magazines are still some the greatest archery reading ever.
Actually "Archery" Magazine was an unbelievable resource for contacts. I used the 1940s and 1950s issues to contact bowmen whose names appeared in those issues. They were usually more than happy to sell me their unwanted, old, used, archery tackle. I also bought out the entire unsold inventory from several out-of-business archery shops. Boy, those were the days... Unfortunately, a bowman who was 40 years old in 1945 would be 104 years old today, so many of those 1940s and 1950s bowmen aren't around anymore to contact.
After hunting season was over in 2005, I realized that really needed to get some the archery displays re-organized as many had just been thrown together. I started at one corner and went around the basement redoing one complete wall at a time, and adding walls were it was logical. Still not completely finished, but guess this type of project is never complete and displays will always need to be redone and updated.
Bernie - That Kodiak Magnum floor lamp is actually the one that Floyd had in his shop. I have another one of Floyd's Bow Lamps that I won as the Grand Prize at the ABCC annual meeting in 1979 at Clinton Indiana. At that point, I think it was the first thing I ever won in my life.
Kenny - Just come and spend a couple of days. Give me some notice so I can get the rest of the place straightened up...
I never get tired of looking at old archery stuff, this is one of the best collections I have ever seen... thanks again Wade
Lucas
Wade... If you ever get a chance I'd love to see a close up of Chet Stevenson's arrows.
Remarkable! I think a road trip is in order.
im glad they put this back up . bet i go to this one post and just stare at the screen , i love them old bear bows .
I wish I had the words to describe my thoughts, maybe this will do (http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l101/GUNSMITHAMMO/Smileys/GoofySmiley.gif)
WOW
Every time I look at this post, I'm overwhelmed. That is a real museum!
It takes real dedication to put a collection like this together. My hat is off to you sir.
Wade, I really enjoyed looking at the pictures of your collection. Thanks for sharing!!!
That's an amazing collection. I doubt I'll ever get over there, but I'll be sure to let you know if I do. I'd love to see some of those bows first-hand, if the opportunity arises.
Wade,
I sure hope you've had a serious discussion with your insurance agent regarding scheduling that collection- if you haven't, then do it today, bud.
You're my hero. Beautiful. Thanks for preserving our history.
Wade,
I wish I still worked for that company in Omaha. I'd stop by for a look see and visit.
Hi Wade,
Really nice collection. Hope one day see that.
Thanks for the pictures.
Rich
More than inspiring, more than humbling, more than words. Thanks for sharing. Rick.
Very nice Wade,Thanks for the Chippewa gift card.That made my day...Merry Christmas to you & everyone else on this site.
Unbelievable! Wow Wade... I wasn't around when you posted this. Thanks for preserving and sharing the history.
I need to pick my jaw up off the floor!!!
Incredible tour Wade. Thank you!
All I can say is wow.and thanks for sharing wade.
Absolutely amazing, incredible, unbelievable, remarkable and without doubt the best collection I have ever had the pleasure of viewing.
Have you considered a DVD? Video taping the collection with sound and putting it on Tradgang to help those interested in collecting. Ultimately it would be for your own personal documentation and insurance.
That is the greatest thing i have EVER laid my eyes upon!! I feel as if i just went through the history of traditional archery!! You should make that into a dang museum!! You have to be one of the biggest private collectors!!
ANd as Hud said a video would be AWESOME!!
Wade
OMG!!!!
Chuck
Wade,I had no idea, thats a stunning collection of archery memorabilia and you deserve recognition for your effort and dedication to preserving archery history. Thanks for sharing. Ron.
Wade...so which broadhead is the best one?
Amazing collection...thanks for sharing.
I think that's just an overview.
I take back my tomato stake coments
Yep, just like I remember it from my visit - maybe a few items added since then. I get dizzy again looking at those pictures. It took many hours just to look at that collection like a speed reader. Like a Mitchner novel in 8 hours. You have a wonderful collection and I'm honored that you allowed me to wander through it. Thanks for the pics.
That is outstanding! My hat is off to you, not only for your amazing collection but your willingness to share it with all of us. Thank you a thousand times over for the knowlage and love for this that you share so freely, its truely inspirational!
Wade, Thats a great collection,You should be very proud of it, a lifetime of dedication. Thanks for sharing it!!
Terry
That is just an amazing collection.
Makes my little one seem tiny and inconsequential
I drive through Nebraska almost every summer going to see my mom and siblings
would love to see it in person sometime
Thanks for sharing the pics.
dave
Wade,
I thought I remembered seeing a post of Kodiak's somewhere? I think I have a '62 but the grip / shelf does not look right. Can you send me to that link again.
You have a museum in your home. Insurance premuim alone has to be staggering
Thanks
man this has got to be my favorite post,its mind blowing! just think how many of them bows that FRED touched or even shot, WADE you are one of my heros,im just starting out and have a 71 super kodiak ,got a 69 comeing,my journey has just started,im gonna drive up their one weekend and spend some time talking and just looking,have to bring my wife to keep the drool off everything.
Guys - Thanks for all the nice comments. If you are heading our way, and have some time to stop in, just let me know in advance and I'll get a path cleaned off so we can walk around and look at at everything. I'm around most of the time now that the meat is all laid in for the winter. It's great to have a few months of being cooped up inside to catch up on some of those projects that have been laid aside for months or years.
oh my !! Seriously.... that is incredible, unbelievable had I not seen it in these pictures.
words will never be enough to describe that collection. The smithsonian would need to open another wing.....
Incredible !
WOW!!!
AMAZING !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
DD
a kid in a candy store! ! ! didnt see any stone heads? amazingggggg...
QuoteOriginally posted by arrow30:
a kid in a candy store! ! ! didnt see any stone heads? amazingggggg...
There are a couple made by prominent old time bowmen.
You may have overlooked the first panel posted November 01, 2009 02:01 PM
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/9.jpg)
That is awesome!!!
WOW!!!! :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:
Isn't it amazing how the history of this sport is just so cool! I can't get enough of this stuff. Thanks so much for sharing this I'm getting on a plane!
WOW how in the world did you find all those wonderful treasures Wade.
Joe - All collectors are crazy. Some are even obsessed. It has taken a lifetime to accumulate all of these treasures.
One of the best things about collecting old archery tackle is that there is always something more to discover and something more to learn about the history of these wonderful treasures.
Got the chance to visit this outstanding collection the other weekend and thought I would bring it TTT for anybody who hasn't seen this thread. Was truly an honor to see it Wade. Jeremy
I saw some of Wades collection at the Archery Collectors Show at Cabelas a few years ago. Was very impressed with his friendly demeanor and absolutely amazed at his easily presented history and knowledge of archery. In the past I have been fortunate to see the St Charles Archery Museum at the now closed Northwest Archery Co. shop in Seattle and the Ishi display at the Berkeley Campus but to see this collection up front and personel would be at the top of any archers list. WOW, Thanks for bringing it back!!
I just got wind of this. Wow. Impressive to say the least. Thanks for sharing.
QuoteOriginally posted by Xavier:
I just got wind of this. Wow. Impressive to say the least. Thanks for sharing.
X2
Wade that's phenomenal!!
Absolutely amazing!
Bravo Wade
What a humbling experience, thankyou.
I am speechless. Incredible collection. Makes me not feel so bad for having a couple vintage bows.
Wade,
Can I get on your inheritence list? I'm sure we are related somehow and I would really take great care of all that...Very nice collection and you need a special museum for all that to be displayed where all us traditional brothers can enjoy it..Even if you just left each member one piece of your collection I think there will be enougth for all of us to share :D
Wade, really nice collection. I spent a lot of time with Floyd and Joannie when they were alive. It's nice to see a lot of the items that were in his collection
I too just saw this.....this is the "mountain" of gold at the end of the rainbow if you're a traditional archer and lover of history.
I would love to spend a week or two just looking. Wade, a worthy lifes work.
Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for taking the time to post this. What a true treasure to see for those of us that love this sport. It's nice to see the old Grumley collection stuff. John was a great friend and there's not a month that goes by that I don't think about him in some way. He describe the attributes of his dad's bows with such passion. There was never a 'quick stop by' his house. John did have a spotless/well organized workshop however! ;)
Thanks again for putting all the pictures and posts together.
I don't know how I ever missed this .....but Holy Cow, That is just incredible.... :notworthy: :notworthy:
I'm going to show my wife so my small collection won't look so big anymore. :biglaugh: Great collection Wade, with a collection like that a virtual online museum would be fitting.
All I can say is WOW thats a incredible collection! Nicely displayed.
Quote"When Alexander saw the breadth of his domain, he wept for there were no more worlds to conquer." - - Milton
Shazam! That is some kine of incredible.
I bet HIS wife doesn't say "Why do you need more than one bow?"
Nice display. I got a tour of this in Seattle from Glenn St. Charles before they moved it.
:dunno: :confused: ;)
QuoteOriginally posted by Si:
Nice display. I got a tour of this in Seattle from Glenn St. Charles before they moved it.
You dont say ;)
I don't know how I missed this one! Pretty much speechless! That's an incredible collection, and well displayed. Thank you for sharing your treasury!
Bernie Bjorklund
NC Iowa/SW Wisconsin
Incredible collection! I'm blown away, especially by the first hunting season display! Thanks for doing what you do :clapper:
ttt
Sent this to the top because I wouldn't ever want to see this topic lost in the shuffle.
Damn!!!!
How many maple sight window 59s in the triple A now?
Only six 59 Maple Sight Windows at the Arsenal,
2-64"
3-60"
1-56"
Haven't picked up a MSW for several years.
Wow...now thats a collection!! Im jealous
Wade's unique tomato stakes are a collection.
The Antique Archery Arsenal has enough treasure to be nominated as a National Historic Landmark.
Tony -
We now have over 275 rose bushes plus dozens of other flowers. Unfortunately all of the old garden spots are now flower beds and there is no room for tomatoes.
Tomato stakes didn't get used last year as I created a nice vegetable garden spot in neighbor's yard in an area to the far north.
Early last fall, we negotiated with our neighbor to the east for an additional 25' wide strip along the length of our back lot line that we will use mostly for gardening. This spot is more convenient than the area to the north. So plan to put in lots of vegetables and use tomato stakes for their intended purpose. Now if we only had room for some chickens...
During the last couple of weeks, the Arsenal has been undergoing a much needed reorganization. Over the past few years, it had become the Antique Archery Arsenal & Storage. We are trying to eliminate the Storage part. Hope to have the project completed in March. Have discovered numerous archery duplicates that will need a new home very soon. Have given away countless furniture items and have several more that need to go. If you are in the neighborhood, bring your truck. Going to Goodwill this morning with a load of miscellaneous items.
"Miscellaneous Items" could be the title of my collection.
"Random Jottings" would title my research.
Seems like retirement is a lot of work!
However, if you are giving any furniture like this to Goodwill, I may be interested:
(http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z117/katswal/bearchairgivetopres_zps0f984f3a.jpg) (http://s190.photobucket.com/user/katswal/media/bearchairgivetopres_zps0f984f3a.jpg.html)
(http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z117/katswal/wadeC02469_zpsj17zgzej.jpg) (http://s190.photobucket.com/user/katswal/media/wadeC02469_zpsj17zgzej.jpg.html)
Whenever he greets guests at the Arsenal, Wade Phillips has a reason to smile.
God willing, I may be the next lucky man to see the Antique Archery Arsenal...be ready for a load of awesome photos!!!!
Wow......just wow!!!!
Lots of improvements at the Arsenal since the 2009 photographs.
Revisiting this after some time I have to say it is a chest thumping accomplishment Wade....
You deserve your title as the premiere archery collector of our time.
Just get back to posting and educating the rest of us. The sharing of your knowledge is certainly appreciated!!
Some of the many changes on the outside include over 350 roses as of Halloween, Oct 31, 2015 when these photographs were taken...
A new bed in the front...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/0%20Garden%202015%20Oct%2031%20c.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/0%20Garden%202015%20Oct%2031%20c.jpg.html)
Some additional roses from the southeast...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/1%20Garden%202015%20Oct%2031%20a.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/1%20Garden%202015%20Oct%2031%20a.jpg.html)
Same shot from farther south...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/4%20Garden%202015%20Oct%2031.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/4%20Garden%202015%20Oct%2031.jpg.html)
Our only grandchild, a 3-year old, apprentice pie baker & youngest archery enthusiast in the family...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/IMG_3766.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/IMG_3766.jpg.html)
The above photographs are some of the reasons I haven't made many posts these past few years...
Very nice Wade but some of the roses look a bit droopy. I'll bet you could prop them up by pounding a few Grumleys' in for stakes!!
Enjoy the little ones that's when they're fun. We are blessed with four ,two of each and the girls always had a soft spot in my heart. They are now 16,18,20, and 22 but oh the memories.
My wifes last day of work is today so perhaps in the near future we can come "smell the roses".
Gary -
The photographs were taken the last day of October, so the roses were just hanging on to life by the narrowest of threads. We are usually very lucky to have any roses by the first day of Nov, so 2015 proved to be a nice long growing season. Never thought of using Grumleys to prop them up. I'll have to try that this year. Thanks for the idea.
I actually have several dozen roses growing in the Arsenal right now, and none of them are droppy. The week after taking these photographs, I took cuttings from many of our favorites and started them under lights. I had my first bloom from a cutting the first week of January and have had more blooms this month. So I already have a very early start this year.
Yes, you need to come "Smell the Roses".
The first weekend of June this year, the American Broadhead Collectors Club (ABCC) is holding their annual 4-day meeting & show about 30 miles from our place here in Nebraska.
We are planing to host a "Wine & Roses" tour as one of the entertainment events, and naturally, an additional tour of the Antique Archery Arsenal is also on the agenda for the evening.
Each year we host several events for local groups and gardening organizations in the community. Serious gardeners are almost as crazy as serious collectors of archery tackle...
Your advice is great... "Enjoy the little ones that's when they're fun." Since this one was born we have had her 4 days and 3 nights each week. She is our own part time child. We are almost lost when she is not here. Sometimes it's hard to convince her that she can't just shoot any bow on the rack that happens to catch her eye that day.
Absolutely amazing displays Wade. Priceless collection. Thanks for the walk through.
Deno
TTT
Trap -
Would guess that you figured out there have been several additions and changes at the Arsenal & want to see them. Trying to finish up inside here so can start to work in the garden as the season is near at hand. Will just post a few of the more obvious additions and do more later...
Added two 4-foot wide lighted display cases for small things, which also provided a much needed additional 8 foot wide wall behind these cases.
Because there were only a few chairs here we also added enough seating for a dozen visitors...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2017%20AAAM%201.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/2017%20AAAM%201.jpg.html)
Spent most of this past week re-wiring the arsenal, getting the old pull chain lights all wired to switches. This was a big improvement for convenience. Note the two gang switch to the right of the bear...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2017%20AAAM%204.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/2017%20AAAM%204.jpg.html)
Put a few more of the Howard Hill things together. Still have lots of work to do to get a nice display together with all the Hill stuff...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2017%20AAAM%202.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/2017%20AAAM%202.jpg.html)
Started using the ceiling for display, note arrows on ceiling at end of room and bows in ceiling...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2017%20AAAM%206.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/2017%20AAAM%206.jpg.html)
Better shot of some of the arrows in the ceiling...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2017%20AAAM%2091.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/2017%20AAAM%2091.jpg.html)
A few of the mostly extra bows in the ceiling...
I disposed of the 18" deep racks and the large stand on end boxes and barrels that were previously used to store extra bows and put them in the ceiling so as to free up wall space and floor space...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2017%20AAAM%208.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/2017%20AAAM%208.jpg.html)
Ceiling storage also provides better organization for extra bows...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2017%20AAAM%2092.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/2017%20AAAM%2092.jpg.html)
Got the Razorhead clock from Fred Bear's office in a more visiable spot on the wall. Still not happy with it's location. Would like to get it near Fred's Chair, which is currently in the next isle behind the book cases.
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2017%20AAAM%205.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/2017%20AAAM%205.jpg.html)
Got some of the fish points and fish arrows into a more portable display...
(http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo301/WadePhillips/2017%20AAAM%203.jpg) (http://s386.photobucket.com/user/WadePhillips/media/2017%20AAAM%203.jpg.html)
Cannot say anything more then just WOW!!!!
What an unbelievable collection you have. :) :)
More pics are certainly appreciated........
Alright
Wow, woW, wow, WOw, wOW, WoW, WOw, wOW.........
Larry, I already said WOW!!! on page 2 of this thread. You'll have to say your WOW!!! backwards for some new effect.
Wade, I actually just moved the thread to the top in hopes that new trollers of this section might find threads that are informational and entertaining. It's a real bonus that you added more photos to the thread. Thanks. It's truly an amazing collection and your passion for it shines in the way you've presented it and your willingness to share it.
Trap -
Didn't even notice that you brought back to 2010 Grizzly Identification thread until I looked just now.
Should probably re-read that one and update it a bit as I'm certain there is additional information that could be added.
That is absolutely amazing. Thanks for sharing the pictures with us. My wife acts like there's nobody alive more into Bear stuff than me. I just show her pictures of your arsenal and I win that argument lol. Your collection is so awesome. I regularly look it up just to admire it.
I doubt I will ever have so many bows that I'll have to store some on the ceiling lol. That's sweet
I'm certain pictures do this collection no justice. Incredible Wade.
As always Wade thanks for sharing and your collection is stunning. Another traditional museum some where in the country to display your incredible collection under one roof.
Ron-
You should have come to the ABCC Annual Meeting last year here in Nebraska. You could have seen the Arsenal in person.
If you attend this year's June meeting in Kansas you should plan to stop here first and spend the night. You will find lots of items to investigate.
I'm working on a couple of new displays that hopefully will be finished and shown for the first time at the meeting.
Thanks as always Wade
I'll just add my voice to the chorus of thank yous and wows for sharing these pictures.
I think I could get lost for a week just trying to see everything!
Thanks for existing Wade!