What is a Horner and Scrimshander ? 

 

Horner is an English surname that derives from the word for the occupation horner, meaning horn-worker, horn-maker, or even horn-blower.  An artificer* dedicated to the crafting of fine products from cow horn.

 

*Artificer:  A skilled worker, a craftsman, one that contrives, devises or constructs something original.  A clever or inventive designer.

 

Scrimshander:  A person who creates scrimshaw.**

 

**Scrimshaw is the name given to handiwork created by whalers. It began on whaling ships between 1745 to 1759 and survived until the ban on commercial whaling. It takes the form of elaborate engravings in pictures and lettering on the surface of the bone or tooth, with the engraving highlighted using a pigment such as lamp black or ink. With the advent of the migration to “The New World” this art was applied to the next available medium, powder horns. 

 

  As a Horner and Scrimshander I make contemporary and historical powder horns & horn accoutrements.  Some examples are, spice containers, powder measures, inkwells, penners, cups, wing bone turkey calls and many other items associated with horning from the 17th and 18th century.

 

   Please, come on in, pull up a chair and poke around. If you do not find something to your liking, please contact me and I can make something tailored specifically for you and your needs.

                                               

                                          

                                         

                                          Your Most Humble & Obediant Servant, 

                                                  John L. DeWald Jr.