The Samuel Byrne Horn And Bag

The Annual CLA Show in Lexington is always very special with so many wonderful pieces on display. The 2007 show was no exception. One piece that stood out was a horn and bag combination by John Barrett and Joe Mills. This was not the first time this talented duo has teamed up to produce a really unique and special piece of early Americana. The pair donated a fabulous set for the CLA Foundation Auction several years ago.

The story behind the Samuel Byrne horn and bag was developed as though Byrne actually existed. This love of historic context is what drives Barrett and Mills. The makers take a fictional character and develop a personal history for him. Then they create an artifact that fits the character’s persona. The following is quoted from Barrett’s account of Samuel Byrne:

“The last quarter of the eighteenth century saw an influx of settlers into the southwest territory, settlers such as Samuel Byrne. Byrne and fellow souls hacked out a living in the hills and hollows in this mountainous region.

Byrne and men of his type carried horn and bag most of their lives. They shouldered hunting sets with the common casualness that their contemporary counterparts pocket a wallet. In the early days pouch and horn ventured into Ken Te Ke and Tenesa with their owners on long hunts. Later stood watch closely by as logs were felled for homes and fields were fired and plowed for crops. They, along with their brothers of wood iron and flint, provided income and sustenance for their collective families.

These accoutrements observe many a joyous occasion in their owner’s lives, socials frolics and weddings. They hung proudly on cabin walls as new lives wailed into the world, stoically observed many a wife, son or daughter return to dust. Regardless of conditions, rifle and hunting set, faithfully served master until they or he, were worn beyond repair.

Perhaps by listening to the stories an old horn or bag might tell we will know more of men like Samuel Byrne, for that matter maybe know more about ourselves.” Well-said John.

John’s account of Samuel Byrne makes the set all the more appealing. The outfit consists of a bag ax, turned measure and horn by Barrett, a bag knife by Jeff Helms and the bag by Mills. The beautifully crafted little pole ax features decorative file work and a lovely faceted handle. It is quite serviceable for use in butchering small game. The turned measure is quite a nice piece of work, aged and patinaed to match the rest of the outfit. The horn is a bit of a departure for Barrett. John’s decorative motifs are usually done with stains. This piece is actually scrimshawed in a wonderful naive country way. The owner’s name is present along with a number of whimsical figures and plants. The horn is really very special. Jeff Helms has been making knives for quite some time and often appear on Mills’ bags. This knife has a great look and feel. The bag is exceptional. It is constructed from both bark tan and vegetable tanned leather. The straps are aged to perfection and yet are as sturdy as a brand new piece of leather. The bag itself is lined with antiqued cloth and leather. Decorative fringe surrounds the bag and flap. A very unique piece.

When you read Barrett’s story and throw the piece over your shoulder you almost believe that there really was a Samuel Byrne and that this was his outfit. This set will serve its new master well.

We look forward to the possibility of future collaborations between these very talented artists. A.R.

Photos by Jan Riser.