Visiting John Shaner (Fly Tying Historian)

[letumgo]

On Tuesday of this past week, a group of us took a road trip to visit John Shaner (screen name Greenwell), to see some of the amazing books and flies in his historical collection.

We were like kids in a candy store, excited to see original flies, by world famous tyers. John has an encyclopedic knowledge of the materials in his collection. He pointed out interesting details, and background stories, to go along with each item.













Pearsall's Stout Silk (Full set of colors) - Reference Photos:



Chadwick's Yarn - Color 477 - Used by Frank Sawyer of his famous "Killer Bug" pattern.




Thank you, John, for giving us this opportunity, and so gratiously sharing your day with us. It was a very special treat. After seeing these original flies, I hope to revisit some fly patterns. I was struck by how dainty and delicate the construction of the early fishing flies. I am sure that this is one of the keys to the success of the patterns. I would like to see this thread used for the discussion of the history of these flies.

Thanks again John.

[zen leecher]

John gave a 1 hour slide show and oral presentation out west this last February. I'll definitely go to another of his if he's out here next year.

[William Anderson]

John, thanks again for one of the real highlights of this trip. It was mind bending to say the least. You're a remarkable host and the time was very much appreciated.

Ray, your pics are fantastic. I'll dole out some of mine this week so you'll actually be in a few. =)

W

[JohnP]

The Chadwick's yarn looks much more reddish-brown than other examples I have seen.

[letumgo]

I cropped the image, but did not adjust the colors. I was sharing the image, for those interested in seeing the original yarn. I think the color of the photo is true.

[Fkrow]

Many thanks for the excellent photo of the Chadwick's 477.

Regards,
FK

[letumgo]

You're welcome.

[Old Hat]

Remember that colors are relative to the lighting and the settings of your computer screen. The yarn looks more reddish brown to me as well than it was in person. It appeared Quite a bit more grey to me than what I am seeing. In fact I was surprised by how grey it was when I saw it. I always expected it to be a bit more like I am seeing on my screen.

[JohnP]

I cropped the image, but did not adjust the colors. I was sharing the image, for those interested in seeing the original yarn. I think the color of the photo is true.

I was not doubting you at all, Ray. Sorry if it came across that way.
'bout time I went back to lurk mode, anyway.

[Old Hat]

I cropped the image, but did not adjust the colors. I was sharing the image, for those interested in seeing the original yarn. I think the color of the photo is true.

I was not doubting you at all, Ray. Sorry if it came across that way.
'bout time I went back to lurk mode, anyway.

I do agree with you John. but like I said it may be a product of screen settings.