A listing of known artisans (alive & deceased), compiled for research purposes.

Artisans interested in having their own page on the site may add or update their profile by logging into the Members Only box at the top right side of the Home Page. Listing is free to members. If you know of a deceased artist or non-member artist, please send a profile and up to 4 photographs (digital or hard copy) by email or mail to the office so that we may create a listing for that individual.

Artisan NameMel Hankla
CompanyAmericanHistoricServices.com
Artisan CategoryLongrifles, pistols and fowlers
Artisan Bio

Mel Hankla, born in 1956, grew up in Jamestown, Kentucky. Mel began building longrifles in 1982 under the direction of Dr. Terry Leeper at Western Kentucky University. He continues to build on a part-time basis. Mel's trademark is his initials, M and H within a circle and M. Hankla in script on top of the barrell or block letter engraving on the lock plate.

A historian by trade, Mel Hankla has been active in "Living History" of the frontier era since the early 80's. Coinciding with this interest, in 1984 he received a National Endowment of the Arts - Folk Arts Apprenticeship grant to work with Hershel House. This experience left him with a strong personal commitment to "pass on" what he learned from House.

Featured ImageFeatured Image
Image GalleryImage Gallery
AddressP.O. Box 156
americanhistoricservices.com
Jamestown, KY 42629
United States of America
Map It
Phone270-566-3370
Email:Email hidden; Javascript is required.