This catalogue deals primarily with the collection of American powder horns and primers formed by J. H. Grenville Gilbert, of Ware, Massachusetts, and generously presented to The Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1937. An essay on American engraved powder horns and a résumé of the Gilbert collection precede the catalogue, which consists of detailed descriptions of the individual pieces and notes of genealogical or historical interest. Each horn in the collection is illustrated by a collotype reproduction and, with one exception (an undecorated horn), by a line drawing of the engraved area. An indexed checklist of the collections records the pertinent details of each powder horn.

Learn to create beautiful, functional powder horns. 275 color photos illustrate working, shaping, decorating, and finishing techniques. Historic and modern tools and equipment are introduced for inlays, engrailing, and scrimshaw. Leather strap weaving and braiding methods are also provided for carrying the finished horn in an authentic manner. For inspiration, a photo gallery shows finished powder horns and a contact list includes the artists featured. There is no better resource for the craftsman seeking to make an authentic, functional powder horn.

A supplemental textbook for middle and high school students, Hoosiers and the American Story provides intimate views of individuals and places in Indiana set within themes from American history. During the frontier days when Americans battled with and exiled native peoples from the East, Indiana was on the leading edge of America’s westward expansion. As waves of immigrants swept across the Appalachians and eastern waterways, Indiana became established as both a crossroads and as a vital part of Middle America. Indiana’s stories illuminate the history of American agriculture, wars, industrialization, ethnic conflicts, technological improvements, political battles, transportation networks, economic shifts, social welfare initiatives, and more. In so doing, they elucidate large national issues so that students can relate personally to the ideas and events that comprise American history. At the same time, the stories shed light on what it means to be a Hoosier, today and in the past.