The Martin Van Buren Fishing Tackle Exhibit

The Martin Van Buren Fishing Tackle Exhibit

For those who have been following the exploits of the Van Buren boys, you'll be excited to see Michael Hackney's (a V.B. boy) photos of the exhibit in the actual Martin Van Buren Kinderhook Museum.

Here is Michael Hackney's description:

I drove to the Martin Van Buren National Historic site in the pouring rain yesterday to present on our [Van Buren Boy] work. I arrived early so I could see and photo the equipment in Van Buren's home. I was given a personal tour of the house and grounds. We started in the kitchen - which is downstairs - to see John's creel. At first I thought it odd that the creel would be located in the kitchen, but it makes perfect sense when you see the display.

The fish were amazingly lifelike!

We then walked upstairs to the 2nd floor and Martin Van Buren's bed room. A large and beautiful desk sat near the window with the rest of the equipment on it. The desk was Van Buren's personal desk. Although he probably would not have had the tackle in his bedroom, the display is attention getting and seems natural. One rod section sits on the desk and the others are on the window sill next to it. I was allowed to cross the rope barricade to take photos. The lighting was really harsh with the window on one side and deep shadows on the other. I also did not have a lot of time since tours were being conducted for visitors. But I think I captured the display for you to see how it is presented.

Here are some great photos from Michael, along with his captions:


John Elder's poplar wood creel displayed on the kitchen table along with the day's catch.


Flys, baits, horsehair line, rod section and reel on Martin Van Buren's personal desk.


Flys, baits, horsehair line, rod section and reel on Martin Van Buren's personal desk.


The Porter's General rod sits on the window sill in Martin Van Buren's bed room.


Flys, baits, horsehair line, rod section and reel on Martin Van Buren's personal desk.


This informational plaque is located by the south gate house. It provides a good description of Martin Van Buren's angling interests. He even constructed and stocked the two ponds shown in the painting.


I am so happy to have been associated on this project with Royce Stearns, Michael Hackney, John Elder, and Philip Allen. They are true geniuses. And many thanks to Michael to send it our way!

-- Dr. Todd (a Van Buren boy)