43rd Annual Southeastern Civil War and Antique Gun Show

Originally published October 2021 · pp. 6–7

MARIETTA, Ga.—After a year’s break due to COVID-19 restrictions, the North Georgia Relic Hunters Association was able to hold its 43rd Annual Southeastern Civil War and Antique Gun Show. The show was held at the Cobb County Civic Center, in Marietta, Ga., just off Marietta Square. Even though we were limited in the number of tables permitted for this year’s show we still were able to have a great show. As indicated by the gate count, people were eager to attend and the number of show visitors was at previous, pre-COVID levels. The total guest count came despite the increase of local COVID cases that may have kept some folks away. As folks arrived, they were greeted by a band playing Civil War Period music for the enjoyment of those at the event. As a special tribute to those who have served our country and community, military personnel, veterans, and first responders were given free admission. Even with restrictions imposed on table spacing, we had over 180 eight-foot tables, and a dozen 4-footers. While some dealers who had participated in past shows were not able to come this year, new dealers requested tables so the show was a complete sell-out. Proceeds from the show help to support the club’s yearly operation and our yearly charity donations made to organizations such as the Marietta Confederate Cemetery, Marietta Parks and Recreation, Cavalry Children’s Home, and Wreaths Across America, to name a few. Dealers from around the country had a variety of items for sale; and while the list of all items at the show is immense, they included dug relics, guns and swords, Civil War related books, frameable prints, metal detectors, artillery items, old currency, military accessories,, images, and a host of other items. While the show is held near Kennesaw Battlefield Park, items from dozens of Civil War sites around the country were available for purchase.

Those coming to the show were informed that they could bring items for identification or to be appraised as noted appraiser John Sexton was at the show to provide free appraisals. Although the show covered items up to and including World War II, the main focus of the show related to the American Civil War. In talking with dealers at the show, they reported that they thought it was a great show and that they did very well with selling—and in many cases buying items. Many said they had outstanding sales. One dealer reported that he had a collector buy everything on his table­ —so as he noted, he had an exceptional show. The new layout of the show was also a pleasant “surprise” for the dealers as it provided them with more room at their tables and that they did not feel as “cramped” as in past shows. Door prizes were also given out to folks who came to the show; these consisted of Civil War books and relics found in the vicinity of Kennesaw Mountain (found on private property with approval of the owner). Overall, everyone (dealers and participants) reported that they felt that the show was a great success. Overall attendance was good (numbers were on par with “pre-COVID” shows, sales (as reported by dealers) were plentiful and all had a good time just spending time with fellow enthusiasts; especially with the dealers with whom we generally only see at this and other related relic shows.

The club’s 44th Annual show is in the planning stages, and right now the dates are set for August 13-14, 2022, at the Cobb County Civic Center. More information about the North Georgia Relic Hunters Association and our annual show for 2022, can be found on the club’s website at www.ngrha. com or on the club’s Facebook site titled “North Georgia Relic Hunters Association” which is open to the public.