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 NameClay Smith
Companywww.claysmithguns.com
Artisan CategoryLongrifles, pistols and fowlers
Artisan Bio

I have been building 18th and 19th century guns since 1972. I started building in high school shop class (back when you could take guns to school). After high school, I continued building guns and managing restaurants. In 1980 I decided to become "self-unemployed" and start building full time. In 1988 an opening occured in the gunshop at Colonial Williamsburg for a summer interpreter which I was hired for. That winter I moved to the blacksmith shop at Williamsburg and was employed there for 2 1/2 years. An apprenticeship in the gunshop opened up and I transfered there in 1990. After a 7 year apprenticeship, I am now a journeyman there serving 20 to life with no chance for parole.
Update: In January, 2009, Colonial Williamsburg laid off 140 people including the 2 journeymen from the gunshop. I am now working full time at home building guns and accessories on custom order. Check out my website at: www.claysmithguns.com.

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Address4560 Village Park Dr East
Williamsburg, VA 23185
United States of America
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Phone757-258-5895
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