Another Side of Mr. Howland….

Since I started Stout Standards almost three years ago John Howland, a.k.a. the “Malamute Saloon”, became my counterpart in the UK. We have known each other  for a long time, and I think it’s safe to say we respect each other (depending of course on who next is buying the rounds). I lampoon him a lot, and he returns the favor,  but what many of you don’t know is that John is one helluva writer, and has contributed many an article to magazines in the UK, as well as here in the states.

American detectorists in the UK…

There’s been a lot of discussion of late about the validty of the finds uncovered when those of us from the US travel to the UK.  I say a lot of discussion, but I am really talking about one discussion by my good friend in Warsaw, and we all know we can take what he says with a grain of salt. 

Love Tokens…

When I posted the photo of the dime with the altered reverse, little did I know it was a “love token”. I am somewhat embarrassed to admit that since  I have been coin collecting for years and years. It was a term I had heard, just not one that prompted more investigation (sometimes I am a slow learner). When  my friend Ray Salmons identified it as such I did a quick Google, and now feel more enlightened.

More Musings from the Malamute Saloon….

The Lordship decided to grace Stout Standards with a smattering of thoughts, opinions, and the usual pissing and moaning (so what else is new?).  John usually writes when the spirit moves him, and the spirits seem to be in abundance this time of the year, especially those wondrous single malts.

National Metal Detecting Day…2013

I was just reading about the Minelab National Metal Detecting Day 2013, and while no one asked, I would like to throw  out a few ideas and suggestions.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone….

Forgot yesterday to wish you all a very happy Thanksgiving!  Without a doubt my favorite holiday of the year. A time for food, drink family and  friends, so go ahead and stuff yourself and please have one for me. You can feel bad about it Friday. Lastly, be safe traveling!!

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The Barford chronicles….

I first became aware of Paul Barford back in January of this year when a friend emailed me to say that I was becoming world famous, referring to the fact that Mr. Barford had discovered my website, and took exception to a few comments I had made….

Paul Barford….selective reporting!

 

Was just reading one of Mr. Barford’s recent posts, and see that he found a few “useful items” to support his ongoing efforts to denigrate the  metal detecting pastime. Too bad he didn’t have the courtesy to share the source, nor the comments associated with them (see my November 15th post).

Rain, where the hell are you?

From here on the weather is usually not that bad for detecting here Texas, however right now the ground is still showing cracks and crevices from the  past dry spell, and the fall/winter rains have not yet shown up.  I just recently learned that our nasty black gumbo dirt is actually called   Vertisol. 

Bending over can be dangerous….

I continue to be amazed at how many detectorists think we should continue to bridge the gap, and find a way to work with archaeologists. Not that’s it is  not a noble effort, it’s just one that is a waste of time.