Historian and firearms expert Ken Swanson will lead an all-day

seminar on Historic Firearms of the American West on Saturday May 2 at

the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center near Baker City.

The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pre-registration is required with a fee of $25. Space is limited.

The seminar will include lectures on the technology and trends that

shaped the manufacture, design, and use of weapons on the frontier.

Myths and legends surrounding guns and their role in western culture

will be examined.

Swanson will also offer instruction on display and interpretation of historic weapons for the general public, including safety and security, conservation, and how to present firing demonstrations.

Swanson worked for more than 20 years with the Idaho State Historical Society, including serving as director of the State Museum and Historic Sites. He is currently director of the Idaho Military Museum. He has been a consultant on firearms to many musuems; to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; the U.S. Department of Justice; and various police agencies.

He has presented historic firearms lectures to numerous state and regional museums and historical societies, is a certified Civil War cannoneer, and an instructor for the National Muzzleloading Rifle Association.

He shoots competitively with everything from muzzleloaders to full automatic firearms.

For more information or to register call 541-523-1843, or e-mail OR_NHOTIC_Mail@blm.gov.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is five miles east of Baker City on Highway 86. Take Exit 302 from I-84.

The Center is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Admission is $8 adults, $4.50 seniors and free for youth age 15 and younger.

Federal recreation passes are accepted.