I was watching a tv program last night about a young blacksmith/gunsmith that lives in the Ozark Mountains, and nearly the entire show was filmed in Woodbury, Kentucky at the Hershel House homestead and workshop. It was a very cool show, and had my undivided attention. I've seen many pictures of the place where the legendary House rifles have been crafted, but this show really detailed the function of the shop, surrounding buildings, and the small town of Woodbury. I was able to see all three house brothers (Hershel, Frank, and John) along with the blacksmith, Daniel Casey, produce a stunning 40 cal bear pistol in less than a week. It was so interesting to watch these 4 masters work their genius. The workshop, main house and surrounding buildings were all very humble looking log cabins, and with the exception of a few very old (or shop-made) electric machines, all the work is done very traditionally with hand tools and a small forge. I've seen only a few of their rifles over the years and they are stunningly beautiful, but are meant to be used as the House brothers intended. I'd give my left arm if I ever came across one for sale.
As a blackpowder shooter and enthusiast I remember meeting Hershel and Frank House in Friendship, IN about 16 years ago at the NMLRA range just walking around during one of the national shoots. They were unbelievably cordial, talkative, and inquisitive to a then young shooter. After the brief conversation, another competitor walked up to me and asked "Do you know who you just talked to?...what the heck was THAT like?" I was well aware of the moment and simply said "Yep, and Frank has a firm handshake". A few years later I purchased a series of 4 signed pen and ink drawings produced by Hershel himself and built some custom cherry frames for them. They currently hang in my living room and are among my most valued and daily enjoyed possessions.
As a blackpowder shooter and enthusiast I remember meeting Hershel and Frank House in Friendship, IN about 16 years ago at the NMLRA range just walking around during one of the national shoots. They were unbelievably cordial, talkative, and inquisitive to a then young shooter. After the brief conversation, another competitor walked up to me and asked "Do you know who you just talked to?...what the heck was THAT like?" I was well aware of the moment and simply said "Yep, and Frank has a firm handshake". A few years later I purchased a series of 4 signed pen and ink drawings produced by Hershel himself and built some custom cherry frames for them. They currently hang in my living room and are among my most valued and daily enjoyed possessions.
