Holzwarth Historic Site - Taxidermy Shop

Taxidermy Shop

NPS

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

After John Sr.'s accident in 1919 that injured his hip and impacted his mobility, he found that his initial dream of turning the homestead into a horse ranch was gone. However, he found a way to adapt, and took up the taxidermy trade to find personal fulfillment and generate additional income for the family.

The taxidermy workshop before you was built in 1922. Two years later, John Sr. obtained an official certificate from the Northwestern School of Taxidermy. If you are visiting the site while the buildings are open, you may be able to locate the certificate on the wall.

Wild game was bountiful in close proximity to the homestead, which gave him ample opportunity for practice. One notable piece included a coat rack with the hooks being crafted out of mule deer legs. Many of his original tools are located inside including clamps, pliers, files, hack saw, draw knife, and hammers.

Similar to how the abundance of game fueled John Sr.’s taxidermy, the availability of Rocky’s natural resources was also an essential part of the family’s livelihood.