he middle ages, and stuffed animals such
as bats, crocodiles, frogs, snakes, lizards, owls, etc., figure in
literary descriptions of their abodes. Then as now also, the dining
halls of the nobles and wealthy were decorated with heads and horns
procured in the hunt.

The first publications on the art seem to have been made in France, in
which country and Germany, many still used methods and formulas
originated. Though the first volume of instruction in taxidermy was
published in the United States as late as 1865, it has been left for the
study and ingenuity of American taxidermists to accomplish what is
probably work of as high a standard as any in the world.

The Ward establishment at Rochester has turned out many well trained
taxidermists, the large museums of the United States are filled with
some of the best work of the kind in existence, besides many persons who
have engaged in it for commercial purposes or to gratify private tastes.
Many of these have made public their methods and modes in various
publications. Among these are the works of Batty, Hornaday, Shofeldt,
Davie, Rowley, Maynard, Reed and others, all of which are invaluable
books of reference for the home taxidermist.

It is to be regretted that the once flourishing Society of American
Taxidermists has not been perpetuated, numbering, as it did, among its
membership the best artists in their line in this country.

There is no royal road to success in this, more than any other of the
arts and sciences, though I believe the ambitious beginner will find the
way smoother; better materials are to be had, more helpful publications
to be consulted and the lessening supply of wild life tends to make a
more appreciative public than ever before.

CHAPTER II.

OUTFIT--TOOLS AND MATERIALS.

The extent and variety of work undertaken will determine the necessary
working space and the assortment of tools needful. Other things being
equal, the most complete assortment of tools and supplies makes possible
the production of the best work in the minimum time. The equipment of
the beginner need be but small and inexpensive, however, increasing the
same as he discovers what is most necessary and desirable, in an
increasing field of work. Wonderful pieces of taxidermy have been done
with a pocket knife, pliers, needle and thread, some wire, tow and
arsenic.

If no other room offers, much may be achieved (with the permission of
the lady of the house) in a corn