My involvement with living history began about 15 years ago and has brought me through a number of periods. Everything from the French and Indian War to the 2nd World War but the mid-19th century continues to be my passion. As a farm kid from the Midwest my idea of a great vacation was a trip to Gettysburg or "the Valley." So I guess the interest has been there for as long as I can remember.

I began researching original leather items locally and produced items for my own impression, primarily as a result of my tinkering nature. Over time, some of my Ohio pards began asking, "Could you make one of those for me?" I found myself making trips several hundred miles away just to take a look at a particular item, much to my wife's dismay, but possible by her support.

A number of the "old" guys continue to ask, "Can you make...." and so I continue to add to the list of items I research and reproduce. Some of the items I reproduce are from my collection but many of the reproductions were possible due to the generosity of private collectors or museum curators who have allowed me to "take a look" to which I owe a great debt. It is an ongoing process to be sure for every question you answer it usually raises two more, but I guess that's what keeps you honest. There are no "always" or "nevers," particularly when uncovering the past.

Feel free to contact me anytime if you have questions about items I make or just want to shoot the breeze.

Take care.

Tim Welch
L.D. Haning & Co.