• Skip to main content
  • Skip to after header navigation
  • Skip to site footer

National Taxidermists Association

  • Home
  • Membership
    • Login / Manage Account
    • Member Directory
    • Join the NTA
  • Competition
    • NTA Convention & Competition Overview
    • Location & Lodging
    • Convention Registration
    • Convention Vendor Registration
    • NTA Competition Rules
    • NTA Code of Ethics
    • NTA Competition Divisions
    • NTA Competition Categories
    • NTA Competition Awards
    • Competition Judges
    • Schedules
    • Gallery
  • Gallery
  • News
  • Merch
  • About Us
    • Our Mission
    • History of the NTA
    • Board of Directors
    • NTA Code of Ethics
    • NTA Bylaws
  • Connect
    • Contact Us Online
    • Facebook
    • Instagram

History of the NTA

The National Taxidermists Association was founded by Charlie Haynes of Poplar Bluff, Missouri in 1972. The history of the organization is rich with stories of inspiration, innovation, and community. The following resources provide great insight into the early years of the NTA and how it has evolved into the great organization it is today.

Articles & Publications

National Taxidermists Association, The Early Years, by Ralph Garland. Originally published on October 6, 2014 in Breakthrough Magazine.

A Tribute to Joseph Bruchac, 1912-1986. Originally published in Breakthrough Magazine.

NTA Roster of Officers & Directors from 1972 – 2012

Videos

Henry Wichers Inchumuk Lifetime Award
The life story of taxidermist and naturalist Henry Wichers Inchumuk, awarded the first World Taxidermy Championships Lifetime Achievement Award.

Bill Geist at National Taxidermy Championship – from CBS Sunday Morning
CBS’ offbeat reporter Bill Geist attends the National Taxidermy Championship, which he calls “a beauty pageant for inanimate animals.” As he puts it, “there’s something creepy about stuffed animals and the men who mount them.” I agree with you, Bill, even if that’s not what you meant. 🙂 Bill Geist can be seen regularly on CBS SUNDAY MORNING.

Al Holmes NTA Slideshow
Slideshow tribute to Al Holmes (1930-2010) of Wetumpka, Alabama, presented at the 2010 National Taxidermists Association awards banquet. Produced by Greg and Cindy Crain of Slidell, Louisiana.


Copyright © 2026 • National Taxidermists Association. All rights reserved. Website by The Webscaper.

  • Follow us
  • Instagram

Follow Us on Facebook & Instagram!