Tennessee Taxidermy Convention 2017

Back in the mid 1930's there was a taxidermist by the name of Warren Castle of Memhpis. So good was he that he was known as the finest taxidermist in all of Tennessee at that time. There are many incredible photos of his work in the very early issues of Modern Taxidermist Magazine. More interesting than that was a timeless bit of advice and encouragement of which Mr. Castle wrote in the 1937 Modern Taxidermist Directory. It is with utmost respect that his article is posted here so that our entire industry may still draw from it today.

A Code Of Ethics For Taxidermists

Don't envy the larger studios - they were once small and have grown because of the integrity, ability and industry of their founders. If you are harassed by competition don't endeavor to increase your share of business by low price. Service, friendliness, interest and fine work are all more lasting and more powerful in building permanent business.
Don't copy another's style or work. If competitors create something that attracts customers, dig down and create something more attractive.
Any economy other than quantity purchase of materials is very costly in future business. The best of materials combined with careful and efficient work will earn their advanced cost many times by producing future orders.
Don't watch your competitors. Full attention to your own business is all absorbing and your competitors will have a hard time matching you - also they are entitled to whatever share of business their ability commands.
When writing other taxidermy studios, don't fail to make it known immediately that you too, are a taxidermist. Don't try to seek information unless you are willing and able to exchange information of equal value.
The taxidermists of the past have left us a reputation not very desirable. It is up to this and coming generations to elevate the standards of our field. Accomplish this by:

1.) A higher grade of work

2.) Cleaner and more modern shops.

3.) Absolutely fair dealings in every case.

Taxidermy can be developed in two ways. By creating beautiful pieces of work, at a price commensurate with time and ability required, or by continually doing work cheaper to keep going. Those practicing the former will prosper and enlarge, while the others will decline steadily.
The only successful taxidermists I have ever known are those of ability and energy and would have been successful in any field of endeavor.