44th Annual Southeastern Civil War and Antique Gun Show

Originally published November 2022 · p. 9

44th Annual Southeastern Civil War and Antique Gun Show MARIETTA, GA—The North Georgia Relic Hunters Association was able to hold its 44th Annual Southeastern Civil War and Antique Gun Show. The show was held at the Cobb County Civic Center, in Marietta, Ga., just outside the Marietta Square this past August 13-14th. Even though we were limited in the number of tables we could have this year, compared to our past shows, we still were able to have a great show. As indicated by the gate count, people were eager to attend and the number of customers was equal to preCOVID levels at previous shows. Proceeds from the show help support the club’s yearly operation and our annual charity donations made to organizations such as the Marietta Confederate Cemetery, Marietta Parks and Recreation, Calvary Children’s Home, Wreaths Across America, to name a few. As a special tribute to those who have served our country and community, military personnel, veterans, and first responders were given free admission. As folks arrived, they were greeted by a band playing Civil War period music. The show featured over 180 8-foot tables. 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, metal detectors, images, and a host of other items. Although the show covered items up to and including World War II, the main theme related to the American Civil War and items from dozens of Civil War sites around the country were available for purchase. Those coming to the show were informed they could bring items for identification, to learn more about, or have them appraised as well-known appraiser John Sexton attended the show and provided free evaluations. Dealers reported they thought it was a great show and their sales did very well; in many, so did their buying. Many said they had outstanding sales. The show’s new layout was also a pleasant “surprise” for dealers as it provided them with more room at their tables so they did not feel as “cramped” as in the past. Door prizes were also given out; these consisted of Civil War books and relics found in the vicinity of Kennesaw Mountain, but found off the park on private property with approval of the property owner. A raffle was also held for a display box with a US box plate and an eagle breastplate. The was Butch Holcombe, Publisher of American Digger magazine. Overall, everyone, both dealers and participants, reported the show was a great success. Sales (as reported by dealers) were plentiful, and all had a good time just spending time with fellow enthusiasts; especially with dealers we generally only see at this and other related shows. The club’s 45th Annual show is in the planning stages; right now the dates are set for August 12-13, 2023, at the Cobb County Civic Center. More information about the North Georgia Relic Hunters Association and our annual show for 2023, 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.