Beta Delta Chapter members tour trapshooting museum
The members of Beta Delta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma met at the Trapshooting Hall of Fame and Museum and Research Library in Sparta.
The program was presented by museum Director Terry Waldron of Sparta and docent Kathy Williams. Members met in the library, which preserves volumes of information dating to the 1800s about the sport of trapshooting.
Waldron gave a brief overview of the history of trapshooting and then led guests on a narrated tour of the museum.
The spacious museum holds many glass display cases and photos of past Amateur Trapshooting Association presidents, photos from the Grand events dating to 1881, and photos of ATA Hall of Fame members from 1969. Several individuals are inducted each year based on extraordinary performance or special contributions to the sport of trapshooting.
A large display shows various target throwers and assorted reloaders used through the years. Waldron explained the changes made to the throwers to make them safer and more efficient. Live birds were used for the sport through 1899. Many types of old targets are on display, including colorful glass balls from the 1800s.
Mannequins display some of the clothing worn during the early years of trapshooting. A large display case holds memorabilia of the famous Annie Oakley. Items in tribute to other outstanding trapshooters, including several women, are also held in display cases.
Members were impressed by multiple displays of old awards, huge trophies, elaborate medals, certificates and antique silver trays presented to former winners. Several displays included antique, vintage and special feature firearms used by shooters as the sport evolved from the 1800s.
Members thanked Waldron and Williams for the informative tour and presentation. Denise Adams and Janice McIntyre served as hostesses for the March 5 meeting and arranged the interesting program and tour. Refreshments were served, and the Beta Delta Chapter meeting was held. Members reviewed minutes, treasurer's report, correspondence and committee reports. Plans were finalized to host the April 2 joint meeting with Alpha Kappa Chapter at Scuttle Inn in Percy.
Delta Kappa Gamma Society International promotes professional and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education.