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Events & Current Exhibits

American Art Pottery - The Lane Ralph Collection

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     A new exhibit featuring the American Art Pottery collection of local resident, Lane Ralph, was introduced to the public the evening of September 15th at the Putnam County Museum.  

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     Ralph’s collection of art pottery includes Roseville, Rookwood, Cowan and Peters & Reed.   All four potteries were originally in Ohio and pieces turn up at Indiana shops and yard sales frequently.  Ralph has collected for a number of years and will share his knowledge with the audience.  His collection will be displayed in the Museum’s newly-installed twelve foot showcase, a gift of Michael and Stephanie Hurt.  

 

     Ralph is a native Hoosier and an alum of Indiana State University.  He holds a B.S. degree in political science and a M.P.A. in public administration. He is a retired staff member from the United States Senate, and since 1982, a resident of Greencastle, Indiana. His hobbies include gardening, tractor restoration, traveling and collecting American Art Pottery and Hoosier painters.  Ralph is a founding member of the Greencastle Arts Council and currently serves on their board. He is married to Ruth Ralph and has two daughters and four grandchildren.

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Lane Ralph

A sampling of American Art Pottery.

William Vietor, Master Gunsmith

     William Vietor was a farmer, skilled machinist, and sought after gunsmith and violin maker in the Reelsville area of southwest Putnam County.  His custom made, hand crafted competition muzzleloaders are treasured.  He was a crack shot, participating in X matches around west central Indiana in the 1940's until his death in 1968.

     

     Impressive craftsmanship is evident in the tools, patterns and firearms created by Vietor. Various muzzle-loading gun paraphernalia, including items made by Mr. Vietor and those under his direction, have been loaned to showcase his specialty.

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William Vietor in his workshop.

Putnam County Potters

     Putnam County is home to a strong community of ceramic artists, and the Museum holds an extensive collection including works by:

 

  • Marj and Richard Peeler

  • Richard Burkett

  • Lance Myers

  • Charles Todd Wagoner

  • Nancy Lovett

  • Scott Cooper

  • David Herrold

  • David Berg

  • and more!

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