World's Most Traveled Razor

[Muirtach]

One shave down, two to go and then its off to its next temporary home.

A couple of observations:
It is a really smooth shaver. That ones really a no-brainer, I think we all knew that it was going to be a superlative shaver.

This razor feels like a tool. I mean that in a good way. Everything about it feels solid. Some razors feel like you could snap the blade in half with out too much effort. Not this razor. It feels like a tool that has been designed to last for generations. The scales are very stout.

The box is really nice as well. The pictures don't really do the box any justice.

I have only shaved with round pointed razors before. The tip took some getting used to.

Tomorrow its off to see the sights.

Thank you Bill, for this opportunity.
Been hard going back to some of my other razors since she left. The lighter ones I used to enjoy just don't cut it anymore. Luckily I have some great framebacks that still feel the same.
Using round points is weird for me. Always miss stuff with the tip's curvature.

[Sullybob]

I felt similarly about the razor being a lot different than other shavers id used. isn't it incredible how unique this razor is?!

It is a unique razor. I wonder if all of Bill's razors feel similar? Leighton, how does this razor feel compared to your other Ellis?


Been hard going back to some of my other razors since she left. The lighter ones I used to enjoy just don't cut it anymore. Luckily I have some great framebacks that still feel the same.
Using round points is weird for me. Always miss stuff with the tip's curvature.

I think that this is going to become the norm.

[Live2Ride]

One shave down, two to go and then its off to its next temporary home.

A couple of observations:
It is a really smooth shaver. That ones really a no-brainer, I think we all knew that it was going to be a superlative shaver.

This razor feels like a tool. I mean that in a good way. Everything about it feels solid. Some razors feel like you could snap the blade in half with out too much effort. Not this razor. It feels like a tool that has been designed to last for generations. The scales are very stout.

The box is really nice as well. The pictures don't really do the box any justice.

I have only shaved with round pointed razors before. The tip took some getting used to.

Tomorrow its off to see the sights.

Thank you Bill, for this opportunity.

Good analysis, Sullybob! The Razor is a very nice instrument.

Just looked at what part of Texas you're in - Austin! Which made me think of a personal request: could you get a shot of The Razor in front of Lance's house? Or, more likely, the gate to Lance's house? That would be so cool!

[danstar250]

I'm probably blind, but can't seem to figure out where or how to sign up for participation in this. If this thread works, count me in. Otherwise, could someone please clue me in on how to sign up?

[BillEllis]

This next quote was over on the other related thread. (You know, the one where it tells you how to sign up... post #156 :rolleyes: )Anyway, it seems there is a comment on this thread too with the same theme. Here is the first from the other thread...



You might have to wave goodbye to the razor Bill, I can see this going walkies!

I have seen, well read about something similar on a guitar website I frequent. A lends B their guitar for a "live show" and B is never heard from again.

Stopped logging into the forum. Still to this day 1 year after it disappeared, there has been no luck in tracking it down.



And here is the second:



In Europe we dont get the chance to get on the forums at the same time of day so its a bit difficult to join in and ultimately get on one of the many lists to be considered for inclusion on the list ( LoL )

Keep it up -

I am considering starting a "Book" on this thing, kind of 6/1 the blade gets stolen in the post, 12/1 some dipstick drops it and causes a chip, 4/1 it has to go back to Billy for re-hone.
7/1 an interested post man robs it ( Stolen )

10/1 a member keeps it and dissappears.

and so on like that, evens 1/1 that it gets around the world loved like a living thing.

Seems there is a common denominator goin' on here. Theft. Hmm! And both fellas are from the UK. You guys across the pond trying to say something? Maybe I'll just stick with the Canada boys once the USA is done... :biggrin:

Now, I know both of these boys apparently didn't get a chance to read everything in both threads or they would have run across my take on trust, theft, and such. I'd rather trust someone than not. However, that don't mean I'm a house mouse and there is one thing y'all should know about me. First of all, I have everyone's address. Second, rest assured that I would spend $2,000 on a plane ticket, knock on their door, and kick $500 worth of hide off their ass if I thought anyone was going to keep it. :001_cool:

Might be a moot point anyway. The UK has banned knives and such... right? So how would anyone be able to take pics of the event? Wow, no knives and no guns... that's depressing.:frown:

[richmondesi]

This next quote was over on the other related thread. (You know, the one where it tells you how to sign up... post #156 :rolleyes: )Anyway, it seems there is a comment on this thread too with the same theme. Here is the first from the other thread...



And here is the second:




Seems there is a common denominator goin' on here. Theft. Hmm! And both fellas are from the UK. You guys across the pond trying to say something? Maybe I'll just stick with the Canada boys once the USA is done... :biggrin:

Now, I know both of these boys apparently didn't get a chance to read everything in both threads or they would have run across my take on trust, theft, and such. I'd rather trust someone than not. However, that don't mean I'm a house mouse and there is one thing y'all should know about me. First of all, I have everyone's address. Second, rest assured that I would spend $2,000 on a plane ticket, knock on their door, and kick $500 worth of hide off their ass if I thought anyone was going to keep it. :001_cool:

Might be a moot point anyway. The UK has banned knives and such... right? So how would anyone be able to take pics of the event? Wow, no knives and no guns... that's depressing.:frown:

I'd pay the same amount to watch that :lol:

[whitebar]

I'd pay the same amount to watch that :lol:

Hey Paul, be sure to shoot a movie so the rest of us can see. Boy I bet that would be quite a show. :thumbup:

[Bacchus]

Maybe I'll just stick with the Canada boys once the USA is done... :biggrin:
WooHoo! :jump:



Second, rest assured that I would spend $2,000 on a plane ticket, knock on their door, and kick $500 worth of hide off their ass if I thought anyone was going to keep it. :001_cool:

I'd like to see this as well :biggrin:


Also, Bill, I tried Bud Light Lime :thumbup:

[Sullybob]

Good analysis, Sullybob! The Razor is a very nice instrument.

Just looked at what part of Texas you're in - Austin! Which made me think of a personal request: could you get a shot of The Razor in front of Lance's house? Or, more likely, the gate to Lance's house? That would be so cool!

I'm sorry to disappoint you, but I don't have any idea where Lance lives, and razor goes in the mail tomorrow morning. Hopefully the next guy on the list can get it before the weekend.

I took the razor to the Capital building yesterday. It was a pretty fun time. I should have the pictures up tomorrow.

Shawn

[leighton]

This next quote was over on the other related thread. (You know, the one where it tells you how to sign up... post #156 :rolleyes: )Anyway, it seems there is a comment on this thread too with the same theme. Here is the first from the other thread...



And here is the second:




Seems there is a common denominator goin' on here. Theft. Hmm! And both fellas are from the UK. You guys across the pond trying to say something? Maybe I'll just stick with the Canada boys once the USA is done... :biggrin:

Now, I know both of these boys apparently didn't get a chance to read everything in both threads or they would have run across my take on trust, theft, and such. I'd rather trust someone than not. However, that don't mean I'm a house mouse and there is one thing y'all should know about me. First of all, I have everyone's address. Second, rest assured that I would spend $2,000 on a plane ticket, knock on their door, and kick $500 worth of hide off their ass if I thought anyone was going to keep it. :001_cool:

Might be a moot point anyway. The UK has banned knives and such... right? So how would anyone be able to take pics of the event? Wow, no knives and no guns... that's depressing.:frown:

I can almost guarantee that Bill wouldn't even need to hop on a plane as someone from the thief's home state will step up and do the honors. Or at least inform the authorities etc.

Plus he has our numbers.

I don't see stealing a $500 razor as worth the trouble that would rain down on that person's head. Especially considering the requirements to get on the list, Bill is thorough if nothing else.

[leighton]

Great work Carl! That's awesome!

And of course, already updated on the map :cool:

I have a favor to ask you gents (Josh, Earl, Leighton).... could you give me the distance traveled on your leg of the journey?

Hmmm...I would say 40 miles of driving around the Phoenix area. Could be more, I don't check my odometer anymore, its depressing.

[Muirtach]

I'm sorry to disappoint you, but I don't have any idea where Lance lives, and razor goes in the mail tomorrow morning. Hopefully the next guy on the list can get it before the weekend.

I took the razor to the Capital building yesterday. It was a pretty fun time. I should have the pictures up tomorrow.

Shawn

Lance is pretty busy right now. What with a new son and trying to keep his team paid and racinng at the same time.

[brothers]

I can almost guarantee that Bill wouldn't even need to hop on a plane as someone from the thief's home state will step up and do the honors. Or at least inform the authorities etc.

Plus he has our numbers.

I don't see stealing a $500 razor as worth the trouble that would rain down on that person's head. Especially considering the requirements to get on the list, Bill is thorough if nothing else.

A felony in most jurisdictions, to boot. I'd think such an act, considering the story behind the razor, would make for some good local TV coverage, and might just stand out enough to get the public's (and the authorities') attention a bit quicker.

[Live2Ride]

I'm sorry to disappoint you, but I don't have any idea where Lance lives, and razor goes in the mail tomorrow morning. Hopefully the next guy on the list can get it before the weekend.

I took the razor to the Capital building yesterday. It was a pretty fun time. I should have the pictures up tomorrow.

Shawn

The Capitol appears to be a fine building and I'm looking forward to seeing all your photos. My fault for not thinking of it earlier and more thoroughly: I should have suggested a shot of The Razor at Mellow Johnny's - Lance's bike shop located within a mile of the Capitol building. D'oh!

Even if Lance were in town - he's in Europe, preparing for The Tour - getting a photo of him and The Razor would be crazy: Lance doesn't do free promos. Getting a shot of him and his team riding by would be something we might see on the evening news: "Suddenly this guy came out of nowhere brandishing a huge straight razor." Followed by video of Shawn in a straight jacket saying, "It's not my fault. It was Live2Ride's idea!" Followed by video of the confiscated Razor - being held as evidence (shudder) with a voice-over saying "That's a dangerous weapon that is".

So, yeah, glad none of that stuff happened!

[Muirtach]

The Capitol appears to be a fine building and I'm looking forward to seeing all your photos. My fault for not thinking of it earlier and more thoroughly: I should have suggested a shot of The Razor at Mellow Johnny's - Lance's bike shop located within a mile of the Capitol building. D'oh!

Even if Lance were in town - he's in Europe, preparing for The Tour - getting a photo of him and The Razor would be crazy: Lance doesn't do free promos. Getting a shot of him and his team riding by would be something we might see on the evening news: "Suddenly this guy came out of nowhere brandishing a huge straight razor." Followed by video of Shawn in a straight jacket saying, "It's not my fault. It was Live2Ride's idea!" Followed by video of the confiscated Razor - being held as evidence (shudder) with a voice-over saying "That's a dangerous weapon that is".

So, yeah, glad none of that stuff happened!
Actually he is in Aspen right now. Or atleast he is according to his twitter account. Moot point really though.

Shame I did not even thinnk about LeMond. Good friends with his nephews and he lives a short distance away

[BillEllis]

I got to thinkin' that maybe at the end of 6 months of the tour, that I'll send it back to the guy who has posted the best pics/video to date for a 2-week stay. After that, the tour would continue.

Your take?

We could make it a poll.

[Anocer]

I got to thinkin' that maybe at the end of 6 months of the tour, that I'll send it back to the guy who has posted the best pics/video to date for a 2-week stay. After that, the tour would continue.

Your take?

We could make it a poll.

Knowing full-well there's plenty of better photos than my own I wholeheartedly endorse this wonderful idea. :thumbup1:

[Sullybob]

Knowing full-well there's plenty of better photos than my own I wholeheartedly endorse this wonderful idea. :thumbup1:

Same here. I think its a great idea. It should also encourage better photos and videos.

[Live2Ride]

I got to thinkin' that maybe at the end of 6 months of the tour, that I'll send it back to the guy who has posted the best pics/video to date for a 2-week stay. After that, the tour would continue.

Your take?

We could make it a poll.

What some folk are saying:

Gollum: "Us have The Precious for two weeks? Master is too kind to us."

Homer Simpson: "Hmmm... World's Most Traveled Razor"...(head lolls back, tongue falls out, eyes glaze over, and makes gurgling sound).

Live2Ride: "Two weeks...If this doesn't light a fire under everyone, nothing will. Plan your shots and line up your help now. Maybe even do practice runs, because there are no reshoots once The Razor is gone. Great idea, Bill!"



Actually he is in Aspen right now. Or atleast he is according to his twitter account. Moot point really though.

Shame I did not even thinnk about LeMond. Good friends with his nephews and he lives a short distance away

"Twitter"? "Aspen"? "LeMond"? It's like you're speaking a different language, Earl! No, I'm joshing you (and by "joshing" I mean "kidding" - not pretending to be Josh in Portland.) As long as Lance is in France for 3 weeks in July, tearing the legs off the competition, and it's being shown on Versus, then I'm happy.

[BillEllis]

I'm sorry to disappoint you, but I don't have any idea where Lance lives, and razor goes in the mail tomorrow morning. Hopefully the next guy on the list can get it before the weekend.

I took the razor to the Capital building yesterday. It was a pretty fun time. I should have the pictures up tomorrow.

Shawn




Same here. I think its a great idea. It should also encourage better photos and videos.


Ahem... *taps out a galloping sound with fingernails on table in anticipation*
:wink:

[brothers]

Well, the stakes just got bumped up a notch. We don't have Niagara Falls, Statute of Liberty, the Grand Canyon, or Pike's Peak, and the only beautiful girls I know are my wife and daughters and my grandbabies, and they all think I'm crazy, so I'm going to focus on what we do have within reasonable driving distance. I'm going to do my best with what I've got, and post 'em so everybody will know the WMTR was here! Then, maybe I'll win a two-week razor vacation. BTW, I presume she's somewhere in transit to the gentleman who's two spaces ahead of me in line right about now?

[BillEllis]

Well, the stakes just got bumped up a notch. We don't have Niagara Falls, Statute of Liberty, the Grand Canyon, or Pike's Peak, and the only beautiful girls I know are my wife and daughters and my grandbabies, and they all think I'm crazy, so I'm going to focus on what we do have within reasonable driving distance. I'm going to do my best with what I've got, and post 'em so everybody will know the WMTR was here! Then, maybe I'll win a two-week razor vacation. BTW, I presume she's somewhere in transit to the gentleman who's two spaces ahead of me in line right about now?

Are ya kiddin' me? Lordy, I'd have a field day with all the cool spots for a photo in Okie-homa. Here's a secret. I love cemeteries and I admire cowboys. You find famous folks planted in the ground and it's linked to the travel razor that visits them and... wow! You get bonus points!

Old Jessie Chisholm (http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=197) isn't too far away.

And there's tons of points for visiting Geronimo (http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=387)

I'm not too thrilled about pics near the bombing site because of the negative impact, but it is still historical. Take a pic next to something that is identifiable where the guys could say... "how cool is that"?

Someone from San Fran, for instance, would need to go to Alcatraz. Like have a pic taken in the birdman's cell or something. Damn! That'd be cool!

Just think historical stuff for an historical trip. How many razors ya think will travel the US and possibly Canada? Uh... one?

[brothers]

That makes me feel pretty good about my short list, Bill. Those were the kinds of settings I'd been thinking about, I guess because that's pretty much "what we got"! I had Geronimo on there, and I'd thought about the Chisholm Trail, but not Chisholm's grave. We're going to have some fun with it.

[TOB9595]

Here's the list from Bill's post #70 in this thread.
FYI...
anocer... Los Angeles California
live2ride... Redding, California
CraigJ... Clayton, California
joshmpdx... Portland, Oregon
Muirtach... Reno, Nevada
leighton... Scottsdale, Arizona
Sullybob... Cedar Park, Texas
richmondesi... Crockett, Texas
whitebar... Nacogdoches, Texas
brothers... Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
AceBuckeye... Westerville, Ohio
davecmu... Northport, Alabama
Lucius... Gaithersburg, Maryland
Gogo... Nashville, Tennessee
smokelaw1... West Hartford, Connecticut
stnlymumford... Huntersville North Carolina
TOB9595... Flemington, New Jersey
gumbo... Allston Massachusetts
tg16... Walker, Louisiana

Tom

[whitebar]

Looks like the oldest town in Texas is on the horizon. If Bill likes cemeteries, then I'm in luck because we have a few old ones in this neck of the woods. :biggrin: Needless to say, I'm really starting to get excited about the razor's arrival. Work is really keeping me busy these days so this will be a nice diversion.

[BillEllis]

Shawn... we are eagerly waiting for some pics... :a29:

[Sullybob]

I apologize for the long delay. I don't have anything but excuses. And we all know the rest of the saying.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39383363@N02/

[BillEllis]

I apologize for the long delay. I don't have anything but excuses. And we all know the rest of the saying.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39383363@N02/

Whoo Hoo! Good job! I like the pics at the alamo memorial a lot.

[Sullybob]

Thanks Bill.
I know that the razor is going to other members in Texas and San Antonio is only a little ways away.

I just realized that some of the pictures are turned sideways. Hmm. I'll have to figure out how to turn them right side up.

[crankymoose]

Shawn, very nice pics :thumbup1:

[richmondesi]

I got a very interesting package today. :biggrin:

Tomorrow I'm going to the Sam Houston Statue (the largest statue of any American standing 65 ft tall

Here's a bit of background on him:
SAM HOUSTON

Sam Houston, one of the most illustrious political figures of Texas, was born on March 2, 1793, the fifth child (and fifth son) of Samuel and Elizabeth (Paxton) Houston, on their plantation in sight of Timber Ridge Church, Rockbridge County, Virginia.

He was of Scots-Irish ancestry and reared as a Presbyterian. He acquired rudimentary education during his boyhood by attending a local school for no more than six months.

When he was thirteen years old, his father died. Some months later, in the spring of 1807, he emigrated with his mother, five brothers, and three sisters to Blount County in Eastern Tennessee, where the family established a farm near Maryville on a tributary of Bakers Creek. Houston went to a nearby academy for a time and reportedly fed his fertile imagination by reading classical literature, especially the Iliad.

In 1859, two years before the start of the war between the states, he was opposed to having Texas secede from the union. In 1861, Texas voted to secede. Sam Houston refused to take an oath of allegiance to the new Confederacy and he was removed as governor.

He retired to Huntsville, Texas. He chose this city because the hills reminded him of his boyhood home near Maryville, Tennessee. He was seventy years old at the time of his death on July 26th, 1863. He died in Huntsville, TX at 6:15 p.m.

Soldier, statesman and rollicking character, Sam Houston walked across history.
# The only man in American History to be elected governor of two states: Tennessee and Texas
# Citizen of four nations: United States, Cherokee, Mexico, Texas
# Life-long friend and champion for the rights of the Cherokee and other Native Americans.

http://www.texasheroes.net/Sam%20Houston%20statue%20004.jpg

[richmondesi]

Also, I don't know if this is what Bill had in mind, but this will be the first razor that I shave with in my new house that I just bought.

Is that historic enough? :lol:

[Sullybob]

I think that is pretty historic Paul. Congratulations on the new house.

[Live2Ride]

I think that is pretty historic Paul. Congratulations on the new house.

Yes, first shave in a new house - definitely worth recording with a camera and video. Congratulations on the new house.

Very nice photos, Shawn! Well done!

[Sullybob]

Thanks guys.

[Anocer]

Shawn, great pics!

Which would you like to use for the map? :cool:

[Sullybob]

Shawn, great pics!

Which would you like to use for the map? :cool:


I think this one is the best.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39383363@N02/3620177550/

The razor traveled about 50 miles with me.

[Live2Ride]

The Google Map is coming along very nicely! Great job on the map, Ben!

[Anocer]

Today marks exactly one month since the WMTR made it's first stop here in Hollywood.

Since then the WMTR has already visited five states, seven faces and traveled over 3,300 miles!

...and it's just getting started!

Here's to you, Bill, for being so awesome and coming up with this great idea. :thumbup:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3585/3623234434_7d053e9ef8.jpg

[Anocer]

The Google Map is coming along very nicely! Great job on the map, Ben!

Thanks Carl!

I just updated the map with the mileage :cool:

Once I get a chance I'm going to custom make icons for the pushpins with numbers to indicate the sequence of travel location.

[BillEllis]

Here's to you, Bill, for being so awesome and coming up with this great idea. :thumbup:

http://home.comcast.net/~cherylellis01/forums/geek_sitting_on_park_bench_md_clr.gif

[richmondesi]

The giant man got a nice shave today :biggrin:

[crankymoose]

The Google Map is coming along very nicely! Great job on the map, Ben!

+1 real :cool:

[whitebar]

The giant man got a nice shave today :biggrin:

Are you referring to Sam or Paul? :laugh:

[richmondesi]

Are you referring to Sam or Paul? :laugh:

Sam... you'll see the pics of the 65' tall man and the "shave" that he got :tongue:

[joel]

I can almost guarantee that Bill wouldn't even need to hop on a plane as someone from the thief's home state will step up and do the honors. Or at least inform the authorities etc.

Plus he has our numbers.

I don't see stealing a $500 razor as worth the trouble that would rain down on that person's head. Especially considering the requirements to get on the list, Bill is thorough if nothing else.

If you've ever met Bill - you'd know he'd let someone from their state tune 'em up - AND he'd still hop on a plane for round two, just for good measure.

[brothers]

I'm next on the list!!!

Yikes!

It's getting hot here in Oklahoma. That's not going to stop us, or even slow us down. My little visitor and I are going to hit the road. Every stop is planned and mapped. [Watch this space!] In all the excitement, I just have to remember to do 2 little things, details really, (1) put my initials on the scales, and (2) Enjoy the SHAVE!!! :biggrin: Thanks Bill!

[whitebar]

Hey Gary, I know the feeling. The razor is scheduled to arrive in my hands this evening and I can hardly wait to see it in person. Paul and I are going to meet in a very ancient historic site between our two towns to actually do the exchange. More details coming later. We will of course take pictures to commemorate the historic first face to face passing of the razor.

[Fnord5]

Bill,
Do you have an updated list ready yet?
I just thought of a great picture opportunity when it gets here.

[richmondesi]

Hey Gary, I know the feeling. The razor is scheduled to arrive in my hands this evening and I can hardly wait to see it in person. Paul and I are going to meet in a very ancient historic site between our two towns to actually do the exchange. More details coming later. We will of course take pictures to commemorate the historic first face to face passing of the razor.

Stephen & I met earlier today, and it was a truly great event. We met first at an ancient Native American Burial ground to pass the torch, so to speak. Then we went down to Mission Tejas which was one of the first settlements in Texas by the Spanish. They set up this mission to minister to the Native Americans. There we smoked a bowl of great tobacco, and we just visited for roughly 2 hours or so. There will be pics aplenty.

My contribution to the razor's travels:
-I took it to The Woodlands (anniversary dinner with my wife :redface:)
-Stoped by Sam Houston's 65 foot statue and gave him a shave :biggrin:
-Took a picture in Crockett with the statue of the legendary blues singer Lightnin' Hopkins
-Took a picture at the park located at the site along the El Camino Real where Davy Crockett camped out on the way to the Alamo (I actually drank from the same stream that he did :cool:)
-Shaved with it for the first time in my new house... without hotwater or air conditioning it wasn't the most comfortable shave, but it was well worth it.
-Made a real friend in the real world because of our common interest in traditional wetshaving.

All in all, It was an amazing experience. I can't thank Bill enough! :thumbup1:

[whitebar]

This was a day to remember. Meeting Paul was such a wonderful experience and for those who haven't figured it out yet, he is a top notch guy. I'm honored to call him a friend. On the way home from our meeting, I took the razor on a little sightseeing trip and we returned home to Nacogdoches just as the sun set.

Bill, the razor is one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen and I'm blown away by the craftsmanship that went into it's creation. You sir, are a master of your trade and I can't wait to try her out. I also want to thank you for your kindness is sharing this with us because that act has led to me making a new friend that I most likely never would have met had you not set this in motion.

Like I said, this was a day to remember.

[brothers]

Stephen, that's a great story. I'm wondering how many more guys are now starting to see there's more to the WMTR story, and are contacting Bill to get on the list. Plus, I am thinking that a lot of guys are going to seriously explore straight razor shaving now, because of what is happening with Bill and the razor he created. I'm really excited to be looking forward to my brief turn in just a few more days.

[BillEllis]

Here is the upcoming itinerary on the short list...


brothers... Oklahoma
dysko... Oklahoma. (waiting for acknowledgement)
AceBuckeye... Ohio
davecmu... Alabama

[BillEllis]

Paul and Stephen...

Great story! I am becoming more pleased by the day over the stories this razor journey is responsible for. I am looking forward to the photos you guys post.

I appreciate the compliments on the craftsmanship, but this is pretty much a middle of the road razor for me. I stuck with functional rather than apply too much dazzle as I do with most other razors. I figured if I made it too pretty, everyone would be too afraid to use it. And the purpose of the journey is for everyone to find a bit if enjoyment from the experience.

[Anocer]

-Took a picture in Crockett with the statue of the legendary blues singer Lightnin' Hopkins
-Took a picture at the park located at the site along the El Camino Real where Davy Crockett camped out on the way to the Alamo (I actually drank from the same stream that he did :cool:)

Soooooo.... where are these pictures you speak of? :biggrin:

Pics or it didn't happen! :001_tt2:

[Anocer]

And I think it'd be great to get some of the pics you guys took together (along with a specific location).

They can be added as special locations on the map, like the videos and such :cool:

[whitebar]

I don't plan to post much until Paul has had a chance to put his pictures up but here is a teaser from my first shave.

http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/7379/68550125.th.jpg (http://www.postimage.org/image.php?v=PqVUIHr)

[cromagnum]

Hello all again.
After a few days of reading, I have caught up with this thread. What an adventure, great idea, great pictures, I just love it.... now where is the beer :)

I have bookmark this thread, and if I am patient I may be able to post on this baby.... Keep up the great work.

Cromagnum

[richmondesi]

You're right, Ben if there aren't any pics, then it didn't happen soooo

[richmondesi]

some mo

[richmondesi]

a few more

[richmondesi]

And Finally...

[BillEllis]

An astounding group of pics. My favorite being the passing of the torch, so to speak. It showcases a newly found friendship, born of circumstance, and a spot in history where it took place. How cool is that?

I wish I could look into the future a hundred years from now and see what history will have recorded about this razor's travels.

You guys really added to the significance of this journey and I thank you for that... more than you could know.

[richmondesi]

An astounding group of pics. My favorite being the passing of the torch, so to speak. It showcases a newly found friendship, born of circumstance, and a spot in history where it took place. How cool is that?

I wish I could look into the future a hundred years from now and see what history will have recorded about this razor's travels.

You guys really added to the significance of this journey and I thank you for that... more than you could know.

Thanks Bill. That means a lot. The cool thing about the Caddoan Mounds (http://www.thc.state.tx.us/hsites/hs_pdfs/hs_cm_gd_08.pdf) is that these Native Americans lived in our neck of the woods around 800AD and made these mounds reaching as high as 20-25 feet tall. They had all sorts of ceremonial significance, and they were also used for a burial ground as well. The log cabin was Mission Tejas. It was built near the mounds in 1690 (I think) to give the Spanish a facility to minister to the Neches Indians in the area. Another cool thing is that the Mission was actually located on one of my best friends family's property and moved to it's current location. That is the location where Stephen and I spent the most time hanging out. It was really cool.

I was also really interesting to learn more about Lightnin' Hopkins, and to drink from the same spring as Davy Crockett :thumbup:

[whitebar]

Nice pictures Paul! The bar keeps raising and I don't know if I'll be able to keep up. Thanks for posting the one of us. That one means a lot and speaks volumes of the brotherhood here at B&B. Bill's razor is touching lives in so many positive ways.

[Anocer]

You're right, Ben if there aren't any pics, then it didn't happen soooo

Paul, those are some REALLY excellent pics! Which photo of yours would you like to use for the Map?

I am humbled and surprised every time someone new posts their photos... this just keeps getting better and better!

I'm going to add a special point on the map for the 'Passing of the Torch' photo... but I'm having a little bit of difficulty locating the action spot on the map, could one of you send me a PM with the coordinates?

Normally, I wouldn't have much trouble with this... but I'm runnin' ragged since in the last 36 hours and haven't had but 3 hours of sleep cause two friends and i just released our first game with our new company

So, my apologies for not being as on the ball as I usually am! :frown:

[cromagnum]

Ok I don't want to sound like a thief but I had to capture that picture of the statue getting shaved. LOVE IT

Crom

[whitebar]

Ben, PM sent with location info.

[whitebar]

Second Shave

This shot shows the other side of the razor and the inlayed gemstone.

http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/7503/10463919.th.jpg (http://www.postimage.org/image.php?v=PqZOWWS)

[richmondesi]

Paul, those are some REALLY excellent pics! Which photo of yours would you like to use for the Map?

I am humbled and surprised every time someone new posts their photos... this just keeps getting better and better!

I'm going to add a special point on the map for the 'Passing of the Torch' photo... but I'm having a little bit of difficulty locating the action spot on the map, could one of you send me a PM with the coordinates?

Normally, I wouldn't have much trouble with this... but I'm runnin' ragged since in the last 36 hours and haven't had but 3 hours of sleep cause two friends and i just released our first game with our new company

So, my apologies for not being as on the ball as I usually am! :frown:

I guess we should use the one of me by the water fountain. It was the campsite of Davy Crockett on his way to the Alamo, and since he is the namesake of my hometown, it should be so :biggrin:

[richmondesi]

Ok I don't want to sound like a thief but I had to capture that picture of the statue getting shaved. LOVE IT

Crom


Nice pictures Paul! The bar keeps raising and I don't know if I'll be able to keep up. Thanks for posting the one of us. That one means a lot and speaks volumes of the brotherhood here at B&B. Bill's razor is touching lives in so many positive ways.

Thanks guys!

[SavantStrike]

I love stopping in to ogle the pics in this thread.

:thumbup:

[Anocer]

The map is updated!

[Sullybob]

Great pictures Paul. The story to go with them just makes it better.

[Anocer]

OK, it was just kind of weirding me out to see something other than the WMTR thread in the Site Announcements most recent reply section...

...there, much better. :biggrin:

[brothers]

Just a note: WMTR is in the mail, on it's way --- to me!

[richmondesi]

Just a note: WMTR is in the mail, on it's way --- to me!

Have fun... it's a nice blade

[Muirtach]

Have fun... it's a nice blade
Nice does not due justice

[whitebar]

The following posts will chronicle the journey of the Bill Ellis World’s Most Traveled Razor during its visit to Nacogdoches, also known as the oldest town in Texas. After Paul & I passed off the razor at the Caddoan Mounds State Historic Site, we drove down the El Camino Real (Old San Antonio Road) to Mission Tejas. Both of these sites are so full of history and we couldn’t help but think of times gone by as we sat and talked about life while smoking pipes together. This part of Texas is chalk full of the history of native American Indians, both Anglo and Mexican settlers, and the forming of the Republic of Texas as its own country. Paul posted a shot of the outside of Mission Tejas so here is one of the razor inside the mission. Near the mission is the Joseph R. Rice log cabin. In the early 1800s Joseph and his young wife Willie snaked the logs to a homesite where they brought up nine children. The cabin they built became a noted way-station along the Old San Antonio Road. Driving the Old San Antonio Road toward Nacogdoches, the razor stopped at the site of the Delaware Indian Village. The Delaware Indians played a large role in bringing peace to this region. Unfortunately, nothing remains except a marker at the site.

[whitebar]

On its first outing after arriving in Nacogdoches, the razor visited the Old Stone Fort. La Casa Piedra (later known as the Old Stone Fort) was built by the Spanish in 1779 as the first mercantile house in Nacogdoches. It remained the tallest structure in town for nearly a century, and often served as the seat of civil authority. The building was the scene of many historic moments in early Texas. In 1834, Vicente Córdova and a partner bought the property and used it as a courthouse until Córdova was forced to flee following the failure of his 1838 rebellion. Over the years, the building served many purposes, finally ending up as a saloon. In 1902, it was dismantled. The original stones were saved and used to create a reconstruction which resides on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University.
Next the razor visited Old Nacogdoches University, which was chartered by the Republic of Texas when Texas was its own country. Old Nac U was the first nonsectarian institution of higher learning in Texas. Its charter, dated February 3, 1845, provided that "no religious, sectarian tenets or doctrines shall be inculcated in the course of instruction," and that "the institution shall be equally open to the education of the children of persons of all classes, without regard to their religious belief." The building was later occupied by Confederate troops during the Civil War and used as a hospital and quarters. It is now a museum.

[rhino616]

Great pictures!!! I love following this thread and the razor on its journey across the states.

[whitebar]

Next up was the historic Oak Grove Cemetery. Walking through the grounds transports the visitor through the pages of Texas history, from the first time white men spied the area through to the modern day. Within a few feet, a visitor can see the resting places of patriots of the Texas Revolution, mourn with a father for his drowned children, and be awed by the intricate and delicate headstones of the old Catholic section. Buried here are many famous folks who shaped this area of the country including signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence. It is a unique place as some of the older graves actually sit on top of the ground in brick vaults.

[whitebar]

Oak Grove Cemetery Continued...

[whitebar]

The razor also went on a general sightseeing tour of Nacogdoches. First was the Stern-Hoya House. After crossing the Red River into Texas in 1832 Sam Houston rode south to the largest east Texas town of Nacogdoches, where he already knew many of the civic leaders who had come from Tennessee. One of his closest associates there was the town’s alcalde, or mayor, a German Jew named Adolphus Sterne, and his wife, in whose house Houston stayed. To fulfill a requirement by the Mexican government to own land, Houston was baptized into the Catholic faith in the parlor of this house. In February of 1836, as the fires of war with Mexico began to engulf the state, Houston, now Commander-In-Chief of the Texas Army, rode to Nacogdoches to negotiate a treaty with the Cherokee Indians. Houston wanted to make sure they stayed out of the fight. After signing the treaty in their village, the chiefs were received at the Sterne house where Mrs. Sterne had just placed a prized possession, a marble-topped center table, in her parlor. When the Cherokees entered, the 80 year old Chief Duwali assumed that it was placed there as a throne for him, and ceremoniously sat on it. The house is one of the oldest in Nacogdoches.

The razor posed for a portrait in front of The Old San Antonio Road sign near downtown Nacogdoches and then visited Milford’s Barbershop. Milford’s has been owned and operated in downtown Nacogdoches by several generations of the Milford family.

Also Along the red brick streets of downtown lies the Nacogdoches Opera House. This was the place, in the 1920's where the Marx Brothers "got their start" in show business. They came to town to perform their singing act at the old Opera House. Their performance was interrupted by a man who came inside shouting, "Runaway mule!" Most of the audience left the building, apparently thinking a runaway mule would provide better entertainment. When they filed back in, Julius (later known as Groucho) began insulting them, saying "Nacogdoches is full of roaches!" and "The jackass is the flower of Tex-ass!" Instead of becoming angry, audience members laughed. Soon afterward, Julius and his brothers decided to try their hand at comedy instead of singing.

[whitebar]

While downtown, the razor visited the Columbia Regional Geospatial Service Center which was established to deal with regional emergencies on the disastrous day when the Columbia Space Shuttle and its crew literally rained down on the town of Nacogdoches. Huge chunks of the shuttle actually landed in Downtown Nacogdoches and in thousands of other places around town. News media from around the world descended on Nacogdoches during the following days. There was even small debris that landed on my house and in my yard. Since that time the center has also gone into full alert during hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 and Hurricane Ike in 2008. The eye of Rita actually passed directly over Nacogdoches but Ike did more damage to the town.

Also Downtown is the old General Mercantile store. In the background on the right is the original location of the Old Stone Fort. Downtown is also the site of The Battle of Nacogdoches. In 1832, the citizens of Nacogdoches fired one of the opening guns of the Texas Revolution. The citizens, both Mexican and Anglos, attacked the Mexican garrison under the command of Col. Jose Piedras. The latter held the fortified town center. The garrison was able to defend themselves until Adolphus Sterne showed the newly arrived Redlanders from San Augustine how to out-flank the Mexicans by circling and by going through the Washington Square area. The Battle cleared East Texas of Mexican troops and made the independence movement much less dangerous. There was a lizard on the statue marking the spot where the battle occurred. Finally, one block north of downtown lies an old Nacogdoches home designed by German Deidrich Rulfs who was the master architect of Nacogdoches in the late 1800s.

[whitebar]

A night on the town. First stop was the Old SFA Theatre with its neon lights, then the statue of Stephen F. Austin located on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University. Surfin’ Steve was the father of Texas and both the capital city and the university in Nacogdoches were named after him. Finally, a photo of me in front of a Tex-Mex joint.

[whitebar]

Here is the razor checking out the spot in my rack that is reserved for a Bill Ellis razor. After that is a photo of my initials on the razor underneath Paul's. And last is a SOTD photo of my last morning with the razor before shipping it off to brothers.

[whitebar]

And now some final thoughts to wrap things up. First, I had the best three straight razor shaves of my life with the WMTR. The blade is just so smooth and I have never experienced anything like it. Needless to say, withdrawal symptoms have set in big time. Even though I was warned of this in advance it is still not easy to deal with. Guys down the line can consider themselves officially warned again.

Showing the razor all the historic sights around Nacogdoches also made me think of something else. We are all making history with this passing along of Bill’s razor. Each one of us is adding to the story and what a story the razor will be able to tell at the end of the journey. I also feel like I have joined a very special brotherhood that can only be fully appreciated by those whose path the razor crosses. Once you have tried it you will understand what I mean. We will all be part of the fraternity of the World’s Most Traveled Razor and someday someone may talk about its journey and mention each of us in the process. That thought is really humbling .

I want to publically thank Bill once again for his brilliant idea to get this up and running and for his generosity in passing his craftsmanship along for all of us to enjoy. I hope you realize how many of us are truly touched by this experience. I strongly believe that good Karma comes to those who deserve it and there is no doubt a heaping helping of it is headed your way.

Now I look forward to just sitting back and watching the further chronicles of the WMTR. There are so many fun times ahead and I can’t wait to see how this all unfolds!

[whitebar]

BTW, the razor traveled 101 miles with me.

[whitebar]

Here are the first two SOTD photos just to get everything in one place.

[richmondesi]

Excellent pics Stephen, except for the one after I ran to the top of the mounds and was all sweaty and showing they top of my head and :lol::lol:my thinning hair :lol::lol:

[Sullybob]

Great pictures. I really enjoyed the history behind the locations.

[Anocer]

I am going on an extended hiatus and need to show someone responsible/tech savvy how to update the map and handle another private matter - prior WMTR recipients encouraged.

PM me for details

[brothers]

Stephen, each stop along the way has set the bar up another notch for those of us who are eagerly anticipating our fleeting days with the WMTR. Thanks for the absolutely awesome photos and rich historical background. It'll be difficult to follow your lead, but I'm going to have the time of my life trying.

[joshmpdx]

Wow, that's really phenomenal! great photo's and text, worthy of commiserating the journey. Thanks fella's!

[Live2Ride]

Outstanding photos and story Paul and Stephen! The "Passing of The Razor" photos in the historic location and a friendship made because of The Razor - excellent! I'm a history buff and throughly enjoyed the history lessons and photos - thank you, guys. Well done!

It is humbling, being a member of "The Fellowship of The Razor". I hope that our contributions will inspire the imaginations of the guys yet to receive Bill's generous gift to showcase their home towns. It is great fun following The Travels.

[BillEllis]

What an amazing group of photographs! Stephen, you have captured the essence behind the reasons I wanted to do this to begin with. I love the documentation showing the travel razor in the foreground of historical spots in history.

With your contribution to the tour, you have moved the bar from the high jump arena and done carted it right on over to the pole-vault field.

All of you have contributed to what looks to be a tour that will have some interesting and significant tales. What's next... a PBS documentary? :w00t: So, who will be the first to have the tour covered in their local paper?

Thanks to all of you for making the WMTR a successful journey so far!

[brothers]

The razor arrived at my home during the day today, and of course, we were not here, we were at work, so the WMTR will be available at my post office Tuesday morning after 8:30. It's going to be a very good 2 days ahead! I'll keep you posted!

[whitebar]

Thanks to all of you for your kind words about my posts. This experience has really been something special for me and your comments really mean a lot. Experiences like this don't come around all that often so I'm just enjoying it for all that I can.

[Sullybob]

Here is an interesting side effect, or spin off of the WMTR tour.

I was contacted by a member who lives near me, he read that I have posted in this thread. He asked me if I could help him with his stropping technique. I said of course. He is coming over this Saturday. So now, I get to meet another straight razor shaver who lives close to me that I would have never other wise met. After exchanging several PM's it appears that we have more in common then just using straight razors.

Thanks Bill.

[richmondesi]

Here is an interesting side effect, or spin off of the WMTR tour.

I was contacted by a member who lives near me, he read that I have posted in this thread. He asked me if I could help him with his stropping technique. I said of course. He is coming over this Saturday. So now, I get to meet another straight razor shaver who lives close to me that I would have never other wise met. After exchanging several PM's it appears that we have more in common then just using straight razors.

Thanks Bill.

Very cool!

[richmondesi]

Thanks to all of you for your kind words about my posts. This experience has really been something special for me and your comments really mean a lot. Experiences like this don't come around all that often so I'm just enjoying it for all that I can.

Stephen, which picture would you like for the map?

[Tyrfingr]

Here is an interesting side effect, or spin off of the WMTR tour.

I was contacted by a member who lives near me, he read that I have posted in this thread. He asked me if I could help him with his stropping technique. I said of course. He is coming over this Saturday. So now, I get to meet another straight razor shaver who lives close to me that I would have never other wise met. After exchanging several PM's it appears that we have more in common then just using straight razors.

Thanks Bill.

The forum that keeps on giving. :wink:

[joel]

An astounding group of pics. My favorite being the passing of the torch, so to speak. It showcases a newly found friendship, born of circumstance, and a spot in history where it took place. How cool is that?

I wish I could look into the future a hundred years from now and see what history will have recorded about this razor's travels.

You guys really added to the significance of this journey and I thank you for that... more than you could know.

With the way this is gathering steam, that dang razor might still be on it's journey!! :biggrin:

[richmondesi]

WMTR Map is updated!:w00t:

[Anocer]

WMTR Map is updated!:w00t:

Excellent work Paul!

[richmondesi]

Excellent work Paul!

Thanks... I hate that you aren't going to be able to continue this, but best of luck on your journeys. And since you'll be wandering aimlessly for a bit, come see me :biggrin:

[whitebar]

Excellent job with the map Paul! Thanks for the update.

[brothers]

Day 1 has been a very fine day on the road. Day 2 starts early. In addition to the festivities, I enjoyed my shave immensely.
Here's my SOTD WMTR-style.

[Muirtach]

Thanks... I hate that you aren't going to be able to continue this, but best of luck on your journeys. And since you'll be wandering aimlessly for a bit, come see me :biggrin:
Paul I am really glad to see someone took up the role. I would have, but it is a PITA to do from my phone and right now getting net access at home is ot a priority.

And a big +1 for Ben in all ways possible

[Anocer]

Paul I am really glad to see someone took up the role. I would have, but it is a PITA to do from my phone and right now getting net access at home is ot a priority.

And a big +1 for Ben in all ways possible

Thanks Earl. It does break my heart to part with this thread and the day to day experience... but my hope is that some day what I am about to experience might benefit others as profoundly as the experience of the WMTR has effected us thus far.

[brothers]

Take good care, Ben. Hasta luego.

[davecmu]

This thread is so compelling - I check it every 15 minutes to see how it's been going. The bar is ridiculously high for the rest of us guys, by the way. I guess I'll have to pull out the big guns for picture time...

[richmondesi]

Several guys offered to update the map. I just happened to be the first. This place is full of guys ready to step up to the plate when something needs done. I really like that! :cool:

[Sullybob]

The map just gets cooler and cooler to look at.

[whitebar]

The map just gets cooler and cooler to look at.

I agree! It seems I find myself checking it out several times a week. :biggrin:

[BillEllis]

Two guys dropped the ball and will be left in the dust. davecmu is up and on deck is...


Lucius
Gogo
smokelaw
stnlymumford
TOB9595
I only give a couple day's notice to the person in the batter's box to make the $15 payment to the guy who has the razor, so make like a Boy Scout and be prepared... :wink:

Go to slackin' and you'll be lackin'...
... man, that's hokie. :rolleyes:

[brothers]

Hi Bill. Razor has survived the Oklahoma heat wave, and is resting comfortably in the Priority Mail package, nice and cool, and ready to fly out to the next lucky B&B member!

We visited several historic locations, and took a lot of pictures. I'll be submitting my photographic record of the razor's journey very soon. I certainly hope and believe that folks will be convinced that we've done our work well, when they see the photos and see the razor "out and about" in our "neck of the woods".

Paul, I understand you are now keeping track, so you'll be interested in knowing that while it has been visiting here, the razor travelled 824 miles all within the State of Oklahoma!

Here's my SOTD from yesterday, June 24th.

[davecmu]

Alright, fellas, just got word it's headed to the Deep South. I think I'll let my facial hair grow and grow (it's going to be difficult in the 100 degree days we're still having!) so that I can give this beautiful baby a real workout.

Must... not... babysit... mailbox...

[brothers]

Gentlemen, thanks for your patience. I'm recovering from my sightseeing trip with "the sharpest razor I've ever shaved with", also known as WMTR, and hopefully I'll be ready to post the photos and narrative within the next 24 hours or less. (Having to go right back to doing my regular job after spending 2 amazing days on a whirlwind mini-vacation was a real bummer.) I have certainly enjoyed and appreciated the honor of participating in this once in a lifetime project. If you shave with a straight razor, and haven't signed up, then I urge you to contact Bill Ellis for further information.

Here's a teaser photo. Fearing that I'd forget to put my initials on the scales, I made it a point to take care of that very important detail first, within 10 minutes after bringing the package home. I'm the "GRG" right next to PR, which is right next to BE.

[AceBuckeye]

Dave

I got that PayPal off to you today. I know you have been waiting for the razor with bated breath, hope you enjoy it as much as everyone else is.

Cheers!

[davecmu]

Got it, thanks. I've decided on a theme for the razor's time here in Tuscaloosa, so now it's just down to business when it arrives. Should be a great couple of days, I just hope the rain holds off.

[BillEllis]

I have to clear up a bit of confusion, and here is the updated itinerary for the tour. I apologize to those who may have got bumped back a turn or two. I did this to make the journey a bit more fluid for shipping purposes and google-map appearances.

This is not the entire list, but here is a good portion of it. There still may be some changes, but I will try not to do it unless it is really beneficial to the tour.

Please do not paypal each other any funds until I email each person on the upcoming list who it goes to. Thanks...


Lucius.............. Md
Gogo................ Tn
gumbo.............. Ma
smokelaw1......... Ct
TOB9595........... NJ
AceBuckeye....... Oh
stnlymumford..... NC
tg16................. La
ambrose............ Tx
I know that we were just in the Texas/Louisiana area, but 8,9 asked to be on the list much later that everyone else. I still have a couple guys to add after this, but I don't want to stretch the active list out too far.

[Anocer]

I'm going to have to bring a laptop with me on my journey to keep up with this... I can't help it! :w00t: It's just too much fun!

[Rhino]

That'll teach me to take a vacation...should have had it shipped to TX while I was there...:wink:



I have to clear up a bit of confusion, and here is the updated itinerary for the tour. I apologize to those who may have got bumped back a turn or two. I did this to make the journey a bit more fluid for shipping purposes and google-map appearances.

This is not the entire list, but here is a good portion of it. There still may be some changes, but I will try not to do it unless it is really beneficial to the tour.

Please do not paypal each other any funds until I email each person on the upcoming list who it goes to. Thanks...


Lucius.............. Md
Gogo................ Tn
gumbo.............. Ma
smokelaw1......... Ct
TOB9595........... NJ
AceBuckeye....... Oh
stnlymumford..... NC
tg16................. La
ambrose............ Tx
I know that we were just in the Texas/Louisiana area, but 8,9 asked to be on the list much later that everyone else. I still have a couple guys to add after this, but I don't want to stretch the active list out too far.

[richmondesi]

We need a pic for Oklahoma City, Brothers! :biggrin:

The map is just screaming out for it:w00t:

[richmondesi]

I'm going to have to bring a laptop with me on my journey to keep up with this... I can't help it! :w00t: It's just too much fun!

Heck yeah! you can get you one of those little ones for just a couple hundred bucks. I think you should do it for sure!

[brothers]

Opening and checking it out.

[brothers]

My late brother Ron made this knife as a gift for me about 22 years ago. Just as Bill Ellis makes razors, Ron made his knives, blade and all, totally from scratch. He asked me to take a piece of paper and draw the knife and he'd make it for me. I can't imagine the hours of work that were involved. He loved to do it, and left no detail unattended. When the razor came, I had a golden opportunity to capture photos of these two amazing works of art and craftsmanship together for a brief moment. Edge to edge, and spine to spine. Boxes also crafted from all raw materials, to the exact specifications of the precious contents. It sends chills up and down my spine.

[brothers]

Near the Wichita Mountains. Looking toward the Southwest. I know, not Pike's Peak, but this is what we have. The Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge is adjacent to Fort Sill, on which the Apache Cemetary is located, including Geronimo's grave. We're on the road now.

[brothers]

This is it. Located near the town of Aline. Still standing in exactly the same spot where it was built on the prairie by homesteaders. The blue walls are original. Made from alkali clay, and at the wife's request, they added some blue substance for color. The old man was around 90 when the picture was taken of him holding his shotgun. Sorry about the flash reflection.

[Anocer]

My late brother Ron made this knife as a gift for me about 22 years ago. Just as Bill Ellis makes razors, Ron made his knives, blade and all, totally from scratch. He asked me to take a piece of paper and draw the knife and he'd make it for me. I can't imagine the hours of work that were involved. He loved to do it, and left no detail unattended. When the razor came, I had a golden opportunity to capture photos of these two amazing works of art and craftsmanship together for a brief moment. Edge to edge, and spine to spine. Boxes also crafted from all raw materials, to the exact specifications of the precious contents. It sends chills up and down my spine.

Gary, what you've done here is real special. That must have been a wonderful experience, bravo.

And I love the Sod House! I remember researching and building a model Sod House when I was in grade-school - stayed up all night working it was so much fun!

[brothers]

The razor felt right at home here. Right next to the washbasin, ready to shave.

[brothers]

This little pony was grazing in the owner's front yard. How could we not take the time to stop and say hello!

[brothers]

When you get to the Apache Cemetary, here's what you see. These grave markers are all at least 100 years old. Except just a few.

[brothers]

GERONIMO (ca. 1829-1909)

A Chiricahua Apache religious and military leader, Geronimo was born in the 1820s, perhaps near present Clifton, Arizona. His Apache name was Goyahkla (One Who Yawns). He achieved a reputation as a spiritual leader and tenacious fighter against those who threatened his people's ways of life. Later he was called Geronimo (Spanish for Jerome), most likely because of the way he fought in battle against Mexican soldiers who frantically called upon St. Jerome for help. He willingly accepted the name. Geronimo's hatred toward Mexicans intensified when Mexican troops killed his mother, wife, and children in 1850. In addition, after the U.S. Mexican War ended, and the United States entered the Southwest, Geronimo faced another enemy that threatened his tribe's existence.

During the Apache wars Geronimo fought alongside Cochise and other tribe leaders. Their guerrilla-like raids and attacks forced the United States to negotiate treaties that confined Geronimo and his band to the San Carlos Reservation in the 1870s. Finding reservation life unacceptable, Geronimo escaped and resumed his raiding activities in Mexico and in the United States. Gen. George Crook and later Gen. Nelson A. Miles pursued the Apache leader for the next several years. Geronimo finally surrendered to Miles in September 1886.

As prisoners of war Geronimo and his followers were exiled, being sent first to Florida, then to Alabama, and finally to Fort Sill, Oklahoma Territory, in 1894. Still highly regarded as a leader by his people, Geronimo engaged in farming at Fort Sill. His fame grew, and he appeared at national events such as the 1898 Trans-Mississippi and International Exposition in Omaha, the 1901 Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, and the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition in St. Louis. In 1905 he rode in Pres. Theodore Roosevelt's inauguration parade. Geronimo received money for his appearances at such events and even sold autographed pictures of himself and other signed items.

Geronimo failed to convince the federal government to allow his people to return to their Arizona homeland. He died at Fort Sill on February 17, 1909, and was buried in the fort's Apache cemetery.

[brothers]

Near Hinton. You'd never see it from the highway. Just a couple of hundred yards east of the highway, you go down a very steep and winding road. Below is the most beautiful little box canyon. The red rock walls are straight up. You can camp there, they have all the modern conveniences (bathrooms!) even a swimming pool down there. On one end of the canyon, they allow rappelling. The walls of the canyon are literally covered with names and initials scratched into the relatively soft red rock over time. Even razors have to take time to see the pretty scenery. Be sure to see the razor sitting on a rock near the big sign. Also, please note the soft black leather carrying case we borrowed from a bible, which served as an excellent way to carry and display the razor's beautiful wooden case throughout our journey. You'll be seeing it several more times after this.

[brothers]

The Battle of Honey Springs, the climatic engagement of the Civil War in Indian Territory, was fought on July 17, 1863, and had been in the making since the beginning of the war.

More than two years earlier the United States government had withdrawn its small peace-keeping forces from the forts of Indian Territory for what it considered more urgent military needs in the East. Soon afterward, authorities of the Confederate States signed treaties of alliance with the Five Civilized Tribes, and for a year Confederate control of Indian Territory remained unchallenged. Then, as part of an overall plan for conquering the Confederacy, Federal forces invaded Indian Territory.

After a year of unsuccessful efforts to reestablish Federal authority, Colonel William A. Phillips of Kansas occupied Fort Gibson in April of 1863, and Confederate authority in Indian Territory was successfully challenged for the first time.

[brothers]

The Confederates opened the battle by firing on the Federal artillery, which replied with spherical case shot, shell, and solid shot for one-and-one-quarter hours. The four Confederate field pieces of Captain Roswell W. Lee consisted of three 12-pounder mountain howitzers and a scarce Confederate Mountain Rifle, an even smaller experimental bronze field piece rifled to take a 2¼-inch diameter explosive shell. Only eighteen of these were made by the Tredigar Iron Works in Richmond, Virginia, in 1862. It is not known how this rare little experimental cannon found its way to the Indian frontier. General Cooper ordered this four-gun battery to support the 20th and 29th Texas Cavalry Regiments in the line of battle opposite the Federal First Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

The Federal artillery consisted of twelve field pieces brought from Kansas under the command of Captains Edward A. Smith and Henry Hopkins. Six of these cannons were the big 12-pounder Napoleons with which the Union Army was generally equipped; two of the field pieces were iron 6-pounders; and four were 12-pounder mountain howitzers mounted on prairie carriages. General Blunt assigned four of the Napoleons to support the First Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry Regiment in the center of the line opposite the four Confederate field pieces backing the 20th and 29th Texas Cavalry Regiments. Blunt assigned the two remaining Napoleons, together with the two iron 6-pounders, to support the 2nd Colorado Infantry Regiment opposite the 29th Texas Cavalry Regiment. Two of the 12-pounder mountain howitzers bolstered the 3rd Wisconsin Cavalry Regiment on the far right of the Federal line, while the two other 12-pounder mountain howitzers buttressed the 6th Kansas Cavalry Regiment on the far left of the Federal line.

During the early minutes of the artillery duel, the four Confederate mountain cannons concentrated their fire on the four Napoleons of the Kansas Infantry Regiment. One of the Napoleons took a direct hit, thus removing one Federal gun from action. Killed in the attack were a section sergeant and a private, as well as four horses, with four more horses wounded. But the Federal gunners quickly located one of the Confederate howitzers in the underbrush and put it out of action by the concentrated fire of two of the big Napoleons. Within minutes the little howitzer was wrecked and its entire crew and horses killed. The Confederate artillerymen then utilized the accuracy and long range of their experimental mountain rifle field piece to pick off Union officers who could be seen on the high open ground beyond the Union battle line. One of Major General Blunt's aides was killed by a shell from the little mountain rifle and another shell narrowly missed Captain Smith while he directed the fire of his battery.

[brothers]

The Confederate installation at Honey Springs consisted of a frame commissary building, a log hospital, several arbors, and numerous tents. Several springs supplied ample water for soldiers and livestock.

Through the encampment ran the Texas Road, the main pre-war transportation route connecting Indian Territory with Texas, Kansas, Missouri, and Arkansas. Honey Springs had served for some years as a stage stop, provision point, and watering place on the Texas Road. Early in the Civil War it became an important depot for the Confederates. It took on increased significance as the Confederates planned to drive all Federal forces from Indian Territory during the mid-summer of 1863. For this purpose about 6,000 soldiers were collected. Supplies were brought from Fort Smith, Arkansas, as well as from Boggy Depot, Fort Cobb, Fort Arbuckle, and Fort Washita, all located in Indian Territory.

The Confederates at Honey Springs were ready to march on Fort Gibson and awaited the arrival of approximately 3,000 reinforcements and additional artillery from Fort Smith on July 17 under the command of Brigadier General William L. Cabell, a West Point graduate distinguished for bravery in combat. In command of the Confederate forces at Honey Springs was Brigadier General Douglas H. Cooper, a former United States Choctaw-Chickasaw Indian Agent and an officer veteran of the Mexican War. He was highly respected by the Indians he faithfully served in both civil and military life.

Confederate deserters and Federal spies had kept Colonel Phillips informed of the impending attack on Fort Gibson. Supplies and troops were rushed from Fort Scott. On July 1 and 2 at Cabin Creek, Confederate forces attempted to intercept a large military supply train of 200 wagons en route to Fort Gibson. They did not succeed and the Federals were able to hold Fort Gibson and prepare for an offensive against the Confederate forces at Honey Springs. The supply train had barely reached its destination when Major General James G. Blunt arrived from Kansas with additional troops and artillery. Altogether only about 3,000 Federals were then at Fort Gibson and available for field operations. Information soon reached Blunt that Cabell planned to bring 3,000 men to join Cooper's 6,000 Confederate troops for the planned attack on Fort Gibson.

Blunt's background was unique. Although first a sailor, he became a physician by profession and a general through politics. Before he assumed command of the District of the Frontier, which was his assignment in the summer of 1863, his military campaigns had been uniformly successful and strongly characterized by offensive operations. The challenge of again taking the battle to the Confederates was before him. In addition he considered the Federal situation at Fort Gibson especially critical because of the anticipated arrival of Cabell's troops at Honey Springs on July 17. Thus, Blunt took immediate action to attack Cooper's forces before Cabell could bring reinforcements. But on July 14, several days after starting campaign preparations at Fort Gibson, Blunt came down with an intense fever due to encephalitis. Although still severely ill after spending all day in bed, he decided to begin the advance on Honey Springs because of Cabell's threat.

[brothers]

Please look closely to the right of the location of the razor. You can see the big hewn stones that used to serve as part of the support for the bridge where they fought so valiantly. This photo is taken looking toward the north bank where the Federal troops were. Many brave soldiers died here at this very spot on the south end of the bridge.

Major General Blunt had dismounted his cavalry units to fight as infantry and ordered all commands to fire rapidly as possible against the Confederate line. For over two hours the Confederates effectively held their position while attempting a spirited flanking movement on the Federal left. The fighting in the underbrush was slow moving and confusing as the lines swayed under the impact of close-in and hand-to-hand combat. With many more men committed to the battle than were available to the Federals, the Confederates appeared to be compensating satisfactorily for their inferior gun powder, firearms, and artillery.

Then a set of unusual circumstances prevailed to turn the tide of the battle. Blunt ordered Colonel James M. Williams, the commanding officer of the First Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry Regiment, located near the center of the Federal line, to capture the four-gun Confederate artillery battery supporting the 20th and 29th Texas Cavalry Regiments. Williams, of abolitionist beliefs, had told his men before the battle that no quarter would be given if they were captured. He then ordered them to "fix bayonets" and move forward in formation. Soon the Federal and Confederate lines fired simultaneously. Colonel Williams and Colonel Charles DeMorse of the 29th Texas Cavalry Regiment received severe but not fatal injuries. Incessant firing continued.

As the battle progressed, units of the Federal Second Indian Home Guard Regiment unintentionally moved in between the First Kansas Colored Volunteer Regiment and the Texas dismounted cavalry regiments. Williams' successor, Lieutenant Colonel John Bowles, ordered the Indians to fall back to their position in the battle line. The Confederates heard this command and assumed that the Federals were falling back. The order was then given to pursue the Federals. The Confederates approached to within twenty-five paces of the Federals, to be met with a volley from the deadly accurate Springfield rifles of the Kansas Colored Regiment. The Confederate color bearer fell, but the colors were immediately raised, and again promptly shot down. They were raised again, and once more they were leveled by a volley from the Kansas Regiment. Then Federal soldiers from the Indian Home Guards picked up the Confederate colors, much to the dismay of men and officers from the Kansas Regiment, who asked permission to break ranks and secure them. Permission was refused, but they were promised that the matter would be righted later.

Realizing he could no longer hold his position north of Elk Creek, Cooper ordered his Confederate forces to remove the artillery, vigorously defend the bridge across the creek, and stand firm on the south bank of the stream. They made several determined efforts to hold the bridge, but finally superior Federal firepower prevailed. Many Texans died holding the bridge long enough to move the Confederate artillery across it. As the Federals poured across the bridge and the fords of Elk Creek and onto the prairies beyond, the Confederates were in orderly retreat for about a mile and a half down the Texas Road to Honey Springs Depot. Here a final but effective stand was made, mainly by the reserve Choctaw and Chickasaw Regiment and the two squadrons of Texas cavalry, giving the Confederates time to evacuate virtually all of their forces, artillery, and baggage train. All buildings and supplies at Honey Springs were fired by the retreating Confederates; the Federals arrived soon enough to extinguish some of the flames and save quantities of bacon, dried beef, flour, sorghum, and salt.

[brothers]

The little graveyard sits atop the ridge where the last skirmish of the Battle of Honey Springs took place. From here, the Confederates moved south, burned their buildings and tents, and the battle concluded 4 hours after it started.

The Battle of Honey Springs was in both size and importance the Gettysburg of the Civil War in Indian Territory, for it marked the climax of massed Confederate military resistance and opened the way for the capture of Fort Smith and much of Arkansas. Perhaps, in terms of results, Honey Springs was the Gettysburg of the Trans-Mississippi West. It is significant also because it was one of the earliest engagements of the Civil War in which blacks proved their qualities as fighting men. General Blunt heaped praise on the blacks who fought with him at Honey Springs. He said of them in his official report on the battle: "The First Kansas (colored) particularly distinguished itself; they fought like veterans, and preserved their line unbroken throughout the engagement. Their coolness and bravery I have never seen surpassed; they were in the hottest of the fight, and opposed to Texas troops twice their number, whom they completely routed. One Texas regiment (the 20th Cavalry) that fought against them went into the fight with 300 men and came out with only sixty." The fateful attack by blacks at Fort Wagoner, South Carolina, under the command of Robert Gould Shaw, occurred only one day after the battle of Honey Springs.

The Honey Springs settlement completely disappeared with the construction of the Missouri, Kansas, and Texas Railroad soon after the Civil War. The Texas Road was closed with the coming of U.S. Highway 69 in the 1920s. But clear-flowing Honey Springs can still be seen about one and one-half miles east and north of Rentiesville, in McIntosh County. Today the Honey Springs battle site of nearly 3,000 acres is still wooded and rural, much as it was at the time of the engagement between the North and the South.

[brothers]

As we passed the "Blues Hall of Fame" and "Texas Road Music Hall" (sorry the photos of the signs aren't too clear), I thought of the famous "singing razors" that we've all heard of, and I figured the WMTR could use a little music, after all the walking and sightseeing. But by the time we got 'er slowed down and turned around, the little building where "Musicians check-in" must have been abandoned. Anyway, since we had the camera, I figured to go ahead and take a quick photo of the razor's visit and vain attempt to sign up to become a musician. Oh, well, maybe next trip.

[brothers]

Along America's Mother Road, Old Route 66, they've got a very old Round Barn, recently restored, and still drawing a crowd. Of the 2,763 visitors to this historic site as of spring-summer 2007 (for which data were available), 1,305 or somewhat less than half came from Oklahoma. About 110 visitors (5 percent of the total) came from neighboring Texas. Many Round Barn visitors, however, came from afar including 81 from California, 79 from Germany, 57 from England, 55 from Norway, 39 from Italy, and about 30-40 from each of the following states—Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Tennessee.

Just across the highway and a bit to the west, you'll see Pop's. This place sells just about every soft drink currently produced anywhere in the United States. They're selling them cold, you pick out your own variety, put them in the Pop's six packs, and for a reasonable $1.99 per bottle, you've got it made. They don't really have a conventional sign. Instead, they've got this giant neon bottle out by the road. It's just white during the daytime, but at night, it's an everchanging rainbow. Tourists? Yes indeed!

Oh, by the way, see my next post. I've got one more stop to make before I shave one more time, box up the razor, and find out where Bill wants it to be sent to the next eager straight razor enthusiast to enjoy, hopefully as much as I've enjoyed it.

[brothers]

Just so we know where we are located, I've gotta throw this one in. The second photo shows only 4 of the 5 Heisman winners from here. I guess they're going to have to make another statue for the current holder of that award.

[brothers]

Thanks to you Bill Ellis, for letting me participate. Your razor has a long way to go before it makes it's way back to you. As you suggested, I took great care and stropped it lightly, and just for fun, I conducted the HHT. Amazing! Your razor just brushes lightly against a hair, and the hair instantly vanishes. No ping, no pop, just whooosh, and any hair that used to be there is gone. That's why I can say for sure that this razor's got the keenest edge that I've ever shaved with. It's light, smooth, easy to handle, and comfortable. It has been my pleasure!

That's it for me. Best wishes to everybody participating in this unique project, and thanks to B&B for providing this forum.

brothers is signing off ---

[TimMechEngr]

I'm going to have to bring a laptop with me on my journey to keep up with this... I can't help it! :w00t: It's just too much fun!

I was wondering if you would get around to this line of thought. Hey, why not let your journey follow the WMTR?

[TimMechEngr]

Gary, WOW! Every stop along the way just keeps getting better and better! What a great journey this has been! I've got to get a str8 now!

[Anocer]

The razor felt right at home here. Right next to the washbasin, ready to shave.

+1,000,000 this is my favorite shot so far, hands down

[Anocer]

I was wondering if you would get around to this line of thought.

I'm looking into the possibility of picking up a really tiny notebook, like the VAIO P, that way I could keep journal entries and upload them to B&B :biggrin:



Hey, why not let your journey follow the WMTR?

Hmmmmmmmm..... I hadn't thought of that! It'd take a loooong time to catch up, if ever, and I'd likely end up going on detours most the time, but that'd make for an interesting compliment...

I haven't exactly set myself on a route... and it would be mighty interesting to stop and see all the sites along the way and inbetween... and it sounds a whole heck of a lot better than trying to 'find myself' (though a little nuttier :lol:) ... Whaddaya think Bill? Fellas?

[Live2Ride]

Fantastic, Gary! I'm going to call you "Rocket Man" because you have set the bar astronomically high! Congratulations on your spectacular turn and thank you for the awesome history lessons.

Yes, the razor does look right at home next to the wash basin - leaves me kicking myself for missed opportunities!

If this is what you did with two days, one wonders what you could accomplish with two weeks?

You, sir, have set the standard - well done!

[davecmu]

You're more than welcome to stay here with me and my family on your trip; we'd be honored to host you at any time.

Sometimes a journey of discovery of self is best accomplished through discovery of others; they offer you a mirror and a foil, both of which are necessary for us to truly define ourselves.

I think the idea of arriving at the same place the razor was after some ambiguous amount of time, sort of tracking it's footsteps but never really catching it, would be very mind bending. And along the way, you could meet up with guys who've held it also, shared in your experience, and use that experience as a gateway to other conversation that might help with this journey of discovery. That ambiguous time period would give each of us the time to reflect a bit, and you following along would be the way to process the whole event for everyone.

In short, it sounds like the journey of a lifetime. Not in the grandiose scale of exploring the North Pole, or going to Mars, of course, but the type of journey that is about exploring the inner spaces of the human experience.

[richmondesi]

Well Ben, you are already welcome to visit me (in fact I'm kinda expecting it). And you can visit your brush while you're here :tongue:

[richmondesi]

Map has been updated. Excellent turn Brothers! Very nicely done.

[davecmu]

Look what the post-lady hand delivered to me today:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-002.jpg

I've gone without a shave for four days, and couldn't wait to try it out. Here's the SOTD picture for today:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-015.jpg

First impression is that this thing is more than advertised; it's a genuine treasure to behold and use.

Teaser complete - can't wait to get on with the plans for the day... This Ellis has a big day planned, a new adventure. I'll be back with pictures tonight or tomorrow, depending on how the day goes!

Thanks in advance for such an amazing opportunity, Bill. I hope I live up to the promise this razor holds.

[davecmu]

Map has been updated. Excellent turn Brothers! Very nicely done.

That picture on the bench, with the basin, is going to be near impossible to top. What an amazing connection between historic tools and their modern iteration!

Great job, Brothers!

[brothers]

Thanks Dave, You're very kind, but I think you'll come through with something very special. I can't wait to see it!

[BillEllis]

I am running out of superlatives! You guys have taken the reins that steer this wagon and you are creating some very interesting history. This is getting so good that the Smithsonian may want to dedicate a spot in their National Museum of American History (http://americanhistory.si.edu/) to showcase its travels. They could only have it for three days and then be required to send it off just like everyone else though... :smile: Well, ok, four days.

The participants thus far have been the pioneers of an enriching documentary of camaraderie, history, and journey that is a first of its kind. I couldn't be happier and all of you have contributed significantly to the success this chronicle is destined to have. Thank you, each and every one of you.

[BillEllis]

Gary...

What an amazing group of photographs and documentary surrounding them! I can't thank you enough for taking an enormous amount of time to add another bright spot to this journey.

It's hard to pick a favorite pic, but I especially like the one with the wash basin in McCully's house and the pic of you at the OU stadium. I also envision what it was like a hundred years ago as I look at the reminant Texas Road. Amazing!

By any chance, did you photograph the headstones in post 385 (http://www.badgerandblade.com/vb/showpost.php?p=1298043&postcount=385) and 392 (http://www.badgerandblade.com/vb/showpost.php?p=1298104&postcount=392)? Or know who is buried there?

[brothers]

Bill, I'm sorry I didn't take a picture or write down the inscriptions. I read them of course. The Apache markers were very detailed, they stated the Apache name of the deceased, stated how they were related to other Apaches, and the dates of birth and death. I stopped reading the Apache markers after the first 2 or 3 turned out to be infants or very young children. I did note that they have all been there more than 100 years.

The large marker within the iron fence at Rentiesville is a husband and wife, I believe the last name was Miller, but wouldn't swear to it. He lived from 1844 to 1911, and she lived from 1856 to 1910, I believe.

[Sullybob]

Gary, great pictures and narrative to go along with them. Wow.

[davecmu]

Just a quick update from my first shave with the razor this morning:

KK-aMKyepoQ

Took some great pictures this afternoon, with more planned for later today and tomorrow. Even my family is excited about this bad boy.

More to come...

[Sullybob]

This thread just gets better and better and better. The bar is getting set pretty high.

Dave,
What is the song on your amazing video?

[davecmu]

It's called "Night, Night" by my band, The Ninja Pigs. You can download it, and every other song we've ever released, at this website:

The Ninja Pigs (http://www.davebrewer.net/ninjapigs.html)

It's important to know that my "band" was two guys, two guitars, some creativity, and a LOT of booze. Please note the curious absence of "talent" as an ingredient.

[Anocer]

You're more than welcome to stay here with me and my family on your trip; we'd be honored to host you at any time.

Sometimes a journey of discovery of self is best accomplished through discovery of others; they offer you a mirror and a foil, both of which are necessary for us to truly define ourselves.

I think the idea of arriving at the same place the razor was after some ambiguous amount of time, sort of tracking it's footsteps but never really catching it, would be very mind bending. And along the way, you could meet up with guys who've held it also, shared in your experience, and use that experience as a gateway to other conversation that might help with this journey of discovery. That ambiguous time period would give each of us the time to reflect a bit, and you following along would be the way to process the whole event for everyone.

In short, it sounds like the journey of a lifetime. Not in the grandiose scale of exploring the North Pole, or going to Mars, of course, but the type of journey that is about exploring the inner spaces of the human experience.

Dave, you've really inspired me here. I'm talkin' it over with the Man :cool:


Well Ben, you are already welcome to visit me (in fact I'm kinda expecting it). And you can visit your brush while you're here :tongue:

:biggrin: I'm gonna miss my little angels kiss of a badger brush :lol: You better take real good care of 'er now, ya hear? *petting the brush gently, "Shhh, there there, I'll see you again soon, be good to Paul... he is going to take care of you now" ... "Rock-a-bye Badger..."*


Just a quick update from my first shave with the razor this morning:

Dave, the look on your face @ 3:34 is absolutely priceless, you look so pleased :001_smile

[Sullybob]

It's called "Night, Night" by my band, The Ninja Pigs. You can download it, and every other song we've ever released, at this website:

The Ninja Pigs (http://www.davebrewer.net/ninjapigs.html)

It's important to know that my "band" was two guys, two guitars, some creativity, and a LOT of booze. Please note the curious absence of "talent" as an ingredient.

Thanks Dave, I'm listening to your music as I type. I think you have talent, don't sell your self short. You might not be the next guitarist for Metallica but you sound pretty good to me.

[davecmu]

Dave, the look on your face @ 3:34 is absolutely priceless, you look so pleased :001_smile

It was genuine joy.

I couldn't get it out of my head that the simple act of shaving with that razor would connect me with innumerable people from untold places, and that just made the whole experience such a pleasure. I thought the whole time about the different places and stories already connected with the razor, and tried to imagine how many new stories still lay ahead. It was a really amazing shave.

The video is sped up, but there is a brief moment around 0:50 that I took a couple of seconds to consider just what I was about to do. The gravity of the moment actually gave me pause for a couple of seconds before getting started. It was kind of surreal.

Can't wait to see all the rest of the stories for this one!

[Bobtrumpet]

I am just a passive participant in this, but does anyone else get a little choked up reading the posts and looking at the pictures (and now video!)?

Has anyone contacted the Guinness folks to see if this can be established as The World's Most Traveled Razor?

[whitebar]

Gary,

I just logged on and saw the chronicle of your adventures with the WMTR. What an excellent effort. I especially liked the photo of you in front of the OU stadium because the expression on your face communicates the joy of the moment. That little moment of happiness, frozen in time, is what each of us experienced while the razor was with us. The photos will allow us to remember those moments for a long to to come.

[Luc]

I love this thread, been watching it for a while and I cannot just look at it now... Great Razor! Great pictures! Love the video! I can't wait to see the next post!

Thanks all for sharing this!

[brothers]

I love the video and your music, Dave! Can't wait to see what's next!

[BillEllis]

Dave, I really do like the video. You move that razor around like you know what you are doing, for sure. It looks like you had fun doing it as well and that's what this tour is all about. An excellent shave-of-the-day photo too. Very nice job! Thanks for taking the time to do it. :cool:

[Tyrfingr]

Lots of straight brotherly love going on in this thread. :a21:

Im impressed by all the effort that has been put in to make this razor travel into something really special. Im following this thread with greater anticipation for every new "Pay it forward".

Thanks for all your pics Gary, i love history and there was a whole bunch of interesting things there that i never seen or heard of before. :thumbsup:

[Muirtach]

This thread is really making me wish I drove or at least had a geared bike whe she was visiting. The more you gentlemen do, the more I realize what I could have done as well.

[AceBuckeye]

Dave

Love the video, gotta say , nice technique. Looks like you had a lot of fun shaving with the travel razor!!

[davecmu]

Thanks for all the compliments, guys, on the video and my technique. Thank you, especially, Bill - your approval means a lot in this venture.

For today's shave, I decided to take it back to the days I began with wetshaving, to give it the ol' "college try." I have noticed lots of guys using their best stuff with this razor, and understandably so, but I wanted it to have a taste of what it would be like in college, on the cheap... So, I went cheap/free as possible:

Bigelow
Sample Booster Polar Ice
Sample DR Harris Milk
BBE Brush

All of these were either gifts or purchased with money from holidays. Not a single dime of my own outlay, just like a college kid would do. I have to say, it was an excellent shave, too. This razor is sharp enough that it just doesn't care what you throw at it.

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-161.jpg

Stayed tuned tonight for my pictures and story from the last couple of days.

[richmondesi]

Thanks for all the compliments, guys, on the video and my technique. Thank you, especially, Bill - your approval means a lot in this venture.

For today's shave, I decided to take it back to the days I began with wetshaving, to give it the ol' "college try." I have noticed lots of guys using their best stuff with this razor, and understandably so, but I wanted it to have a taste of what it would be like in college, on the cheap... So, I went cheap/free as possible:

Bigelow
Sample Booster Polar Ice
Sample DR Harris Milk
BBE Brush

All of these were either gifts or purchased with money from holidays. Not a single dime of my own outlay, just like a college kid would do. I have to say, it was an excellent shave, too. This razor is sharp enough that it just doesn't care what you throw at it.

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-161.jpg

Stayed tuned tonight for my pictures and story from the last couple of days.

excellent pic! I love it!:w00t:

[davecmu]

WMTR Goes to College
Tuscaloosa, Alabama is a town with two faces. Primarily a college town built around The University of Alabama, the city also offers a variety of interesting activities and diversions. It has a rich history filled with stories of success and defeat. Throughout this history, the University has been the unifying thread, the keystone in the overarching story arc of the town.

When it was close to time for me to take brief caretakership of the WMTR, I spent some time looking back on the things it had done. I considered where I fell in the list, and tried to think of the razor as a person. I decided that just about the time I was going to be getting the razor, it would be a teenager, ready to go off to college and get an education. So, that’s what I’ve done. I’ve taken the World’s Most Traveled Razor to school. When it leaves my hands, it will be a graduate of The University of Alabama, and will have spent its time becoming enriched in the way that college is supposed to prepare a person – not through rote memorization of dates and facts, but through the development of critical awareness skills and a sense of place in the world.

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-101.jpg

Welcome to The University of Alabama. Established in 1831, UA has played a vital role in the history of the town of Tuscaloosa and in the nation. We’ll be exploring some of these themes, but first, an introduction to the city of Northport/Tuscaloosa.

The Towns

Northport and Tuscaloosa straddle the Black Warrior River. In fact, the city name, Tuscaloosa, is a Native American phrase meaning “Black Warrior.” The river has played a role in every phase of the town’s history, either through commerce or war.

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-147.jpg

This is the Bama Belle, a paddle-wheeler giving historic tours of the Black Warrior twice a week.

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-149.jpg

This is a view East down the Black Warrior.

[davecmu]

Northport

Northport, on the north shore of the river, is a quant historic town with a focus on the arts. It hosts the Kentuck Association, which each year holds one of the largest international arts festivals in the world. They have a headquarters building in downtown Northport which features a courtyard filled with local art. This tree is their international logo:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-134.jpg

This is the world-famous Red Dog statue atop one of the local galleries adjacent to the courtyard:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-132.jpg

Historic downtown Northport also features a fully-functioning old-school barbershop, with red leather Belmont chairs and everything. I thought the razor might feel at home here:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-121.jpg

Before going to school, we stopped and had some barbeque. We didn’t get to the original Dreamland, but managed to stop at this location:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-137.jpg

[davecmu]

The University and Civil War

Now that we’d had an orientation to the town, we went to school. The University has a history steeped in tradition. One of the first traditions new students learn about is the University’s history as a military institution.

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-066.jpg

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-068.jpg

During the Civil War, the city of Northport was occupied by 1,500 Union troops under the command of John Croxton. He had planned to move into the city of Tuscaloosa via the only bridge across the Black Warrior in the morning, but the townsfolk discovered he was in Northport and began pulling up the bridge planks at midnight to prevent him from entering the town. Croxton marched to the bridge and began an attack. Approximately 150 Cadets from the University marched the mile and half to the bridge and defended the town against Croxton’s forces, inflicting several dozen casualties before withdrawing 10 miles east. Croxton marched to the University and burned it almost entirely to the ground. One building that survived was the President’s mansion:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-040.jpg

The Mansion was in the process of being ransacked by Union troops when the President’s wife rode onto the grounds from her hiding place in Bryce Mental Hospital and demanded the troops stop the destruction at once. The troops obeyed her commands, putting out several small starter fires, and even cleaning up the mess from their looting! Here is a picture of Bryce Hospital, just because I’m not sure there will be any other pictures of the razor and an insane asylum for the rest of the tour:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-095.jpg

After the war, the University began to develop other traditions. One of these is a focus on academic excellence. To get started on the right track, I had the WMTR visit Gorgas Library, named for Amelia Gayle Gorgas, who was the first woman on the faculty:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-058.jpg

[davecmu]

Football

Another fine tradition at UA is its football heritage. No student experience would be complete without a visit to Bryant-Denny Stadium:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-070.jpg

And it’s Walk of Champions, which details all 12 National Championships and all of the regional championships, as well:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-075.jpg

Now, some schools claim to have great champions from their school. For example, statues of four or five Heisman Trophy winners is nothing to sneeze at. However, we have a set of statues, too. They’re our National Champion coaches, and there are four of them:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-088.jpg

What’s that you’re holding, Paul “Bear” Bryant? Oh, it’s the World’s Most Traveled Razor:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-078.jpg

Maybe you’d like to try it out?

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-092.jpg

Now the WMTR has shaved the face of the legendary Bear, and his six national championships. That’s right, count ‘em:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-083.jpg

[davecmu]

The Stand in the Schoolhouse Door

And now for something a bit more important. One other tradition at UA is that of leadership. Whether it is about our rich military history, on the football field, or in Civil Rights. George Wallace’s famous “Stand in the Schoolhouse Door,” immortalized in many different forms, most recently in Forrest Gump, took place at Foster Auditorium on our campus. There is a plaque at the place where it happened, and it stands as a reminder to our students that the world can and must change for the better, and that it takes courage and leadership to make those changes. This spot was in the world spotlight in 1963:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/a5/University_of_alabama.jpg

Now, the WMTR has come to this place to touch the face of history:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-019.jpg

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-021.jpg

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-032.jpg

With that, the WMTR had experienced the things most UA students do: a sense of history, the greatness of college football, and good barbeque. It was time to move on.

Just for kicks, I let the razor tell its stories to a member of the next generation, to begin fulfilling the responsibility of educated (formally or informally) people everywhere by sharing its wisdom with my son, Miles:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-110.jpg

[davecmu]

I’m so grateful for the time I had with the World’s Most Traveled Razor. It’s an amazing instrument, and the experience of being part of its historic journey has been one of great self-discovery. Thanks so much to Bill for the time and opportunity!

[BillEllis]

Say, guys. I've seen this little purple thingie in several pics sharing box space with the razor. Can someone tell me what it is? :confused:

http://www.badgerandblade.com/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=57071&stc=1&d=1246077688

[richmondesi]

Say, guys. I've seen this little purple thingie in several pics sharing box space with the razor. Can someone tell me what it is? :confused:

http://www.badgerandblade.com/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=57071&stc=1&d=1246077688

It is a piece of foamy stuff that was in the slot where the razor sits when I got the box. I assumed that you put it in to ensure that the razor fit snugly and didn't get rattle around during shipping...

[BillEllis]

Dave...

You have done an excellent job for your leg of the journey. I really enjoyed the theme surrounding the University of Alabama and surrounding area. I really got a kick out of coach cradling the razor on his arm. :cool: I especially like the significance of the razor at the Schoolhouse door.

I'm finding it a bit amazing that no one has mentioned being questioned by anyone in regards to flashing a straight razor around in public. I think there are some cities where the police would confiscate the razor if it were exposed in public. San Francisco, LA, Washington DC, Chicago...

Has the public been curious with any of you about what you are doing running around with a straight razor out in front of God and everybody? Any of you shared the WMTR story in any barber shops?

One more thing, Dave... I'm really glad that you had a good time with the razor, but it wasn't really necessary for you to shave the top of your head as part of the gig. :lol: Just kidding... you have more hair than I do. I hear so many bald jokes that I just can't pass up the opportunity to do it too.

How 'bout this for a thought. The razor gets to travel for so long that your boy, Miles, gets old enough to shave, gets on the list and then add his own pictures for the tour... :w00t: I know I wouldn't be around to see it, but I think it would be cool.

[BillEllis]

It is a piece of foamy stuff that was in the slot where the razor sits when I got the box. I assumed that you put it in to ensure that the razor fit snugly and didn't get rattle around during shipping...Ahh... as long as it works, it's fine with me. As long as nobody tries to put one of those bobble-head dolls on the lid, I guess I'm ok. :biggrin:

[richmondesi]

Ahh... as long as it works, it's fine with me. As long as nobody tries to put one of those bobble-head dolls on the lid, I guess I'm ok. :biggrin:

:lol::lol:

When I took the pictures of Sam Houston it was dark and that little thing fell out on the ground. It took 10 minutes of looking for it, but I wasn't going to leave it (assuming that you wanted it in there) for anything. :lol:

[davecmu]

I'm finding it a bit amazing that no one has mentioned being questioned by anyone in regards to flashing a straight razor around in public. I think there are some cities where the police would confiscate the razor if it were exposed in public. San Francisco, LA, Washington DC, Chicago...

Has the public been curious with any of you about what you are doing running around with a straight razor out in front of God and everybody? Any of you shared the WMTR story in any barber shops?

Funny you mention this - I was asked by two different people what the heck I was up to when I was taking pictures. One of them was a UAPD officer who pulled up at the stadium and wanted to know why I was taking so many pictures all over campus. I explained it was my end of a bargain with people from all over the country, and he seemed satisfied. He asked if I was planning on using them for commercial purposes, which struck me as funnier than anything else.


One more thing, Dave... I'm really glad that you had a good time with the razor, but it wasn't really necessary for you to shave the top of your head as part of the gig. :lol: Just kidding... you have more hair than I do. I hear so many bald jokes that I just can't pass up the opportunity to do it too.

I just couldn't get enough of that razor, I had to use it everywhere I could reach. Be glad I didn't post all the pictures... :tongue_sm

(just kidding, Lucius - but it'll come to you fully sanitized, anyway)

As for my son using it, I'd be honored. When you're ready to sell it, you let me know.

[davecmu]

I can't believe I forgot one of my favorite shots. This one was at the end of the day on Saturday:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-117.jpg

It's not a Bud Light Lime, Bill, but I hope you'll find a delicious homebrew as refreshing. And Elmer's is the only place my band has ever played a live show for total strangers. It was a real hoot, and I got to scratch something off my bucket list!

Randomly, here's another shot I left out previously:

http://www.davebrewer.net/images/shave/ellis/ellis-053.jpg

At the Denny Chimes tower, the football captains each year have a cement pad with their name and year on them. Supposedly, this guy is famous.

[brothers]

Well done Dave! I love it all. Little Miles has a gleam in his eye, holding that little treasure box, doesn't he? I love your photos and tour, especially the one of the razor with the great Bear Bryant himself.

Our only regret is that the powers that were at the time refused to let Bear and Barry take their teams down to the Astrodome, when it was offered at one time, for the two giants to play the game that would have been the best ever. As I recall, both coaches said they'd do it, but the pantywaists that were running things were dead set against it. Too bad!

Bill, the little purple object has puzzled me ever since I saw it in one of the first photos I saw. Maybe it's an alien implant for tracking purposes?:w00t:

[richmondesi]

Map has been updated. Well done Dave!:w00t:

[TimMechEngr]

Dave, I was glad to see your part of the journey follow the path through the University of Alabama! My lady friend lived most of her life in Dothan, Alabama, and I became an adopted Tide fan when I met her over 4 years ago. I was really anxious to show her your part of the journey, and she took a great trip down memory lane reading your story and seeing the pictures. She only had one comment she would have added. Nowhere in your story was it mentioned about the most famous slogan in Tuscaloosa:


ROLL TIDE!!!

[Antique Hoosier]

Dave....wonderful pics and video...( Your music is superb as well). Thanks for helping document this as I sit on the sidelines enjoying it all.

[whitebar]

Good job Dave! I liked the picture of you and the razor at Foster Auditorium. The 1960s were such a turbulent time in our nation's history and I found it interesting that things there still look the same after all these years. I also enjoyed the coaches statues as Gene Stallings is one of my favorite coaches. He played under Bryant, then the the Dallas Cowboys, was an assistant coach in Dallas and then returned to Alabama to take the team to a National Championship. I always felt he was a classy guy and a good coach.

[r0ckrat]

Dave, great video! I confess to skipping a few pages, so may have missed this in an earlier post, but what was with the door? I'm guessing you were letting a cat in and out... I have 3, so I know that door trick...

:thumbup:

[brothers]

Dave, great video! I confess to skipping a few pages, so may have missed this in an earlier post, but what was with the door? I'm guessing you were letting a cat in and out... I have 3, so I know that door trick...

:thumbup:

That was going to be my guess too. (I really did like the music in the video, but now I'm repeating myself.)

[davecmu]

We have a pair of cats. Around the 2:25 mark, you'll see my boy-cat Ray do his "touch the doorknob" trick, which is what he does when I don't respond quickly enough to his nudging the door.

Smartest. Cat. Ever.

Thanks for all the compliments on the video; I took a bit of a ribbing from SWMBO for putting it up, but now feel vindicated. :-) And I'm glad there is so much positive response to the music. I'll be sure to tell the band they got a couple of fans.

Dave

[BillEllis]

A small favor, if I may. Can all the participants give Paul the two major cross streets to where you live so that the pin in the google map is as accurate as it can possibly be?

I don't know if doing this will work at this stage of the game to make corrections, but for future trips, it would be nice to see a pin that's very close to where the razor is actually located in the world. :smile:

[Anocer]

For all the earlier pins I tried my best to get the pin at the actual location of the posted photo/video - so those should be pretty close with the exception of folks that posted a photo and a video. I moved the pin for these slightly apart so they can be clicked on more easily. It might make more sense to give the nearest location to the photo/video used for the map, as opposed to always defaulting on the nearby cross-streets of the recipients home.

I'm currently failing at figuring out how to get coordinates from google maps without an add-on or download... anybody know? This would make it a lot easier to get the exact location of folks photos/videos

[Lucius]

I'm currently failing at figuring out how to get coordinates from google maps without an add-on or download... anybody know? This would make it a lot easier to get the exact location of folks photos/videos

I'm not entirely sure what you're asking for.

[BillEllis]

It might make more sense to give the nearest location to the photo/video used for the map, as opposed to always defaulting on the nearby cross-streets of the recipients home.Absolutely, I prolly meant that... :redface:


Good lookin' out, Ben...

[davecmu]

A small favor, if I may. Can all the participants give Paul the two major cross streets to where you live so that the pin in the google map is as accurate as it can possibly be?

I don't know if doing this will work at this stage of the game to make corrections, but for future trips, it would be nice to see a pin that's very close to where the razor is actually located in the world. :smile:

I've sent Paul a PM with the locations of my two contributions to the map. I think this is a great idea as Google Street View will allow us to almost be there in many of these places!

[richmondesi]

I have corrected Davecmu's pins and mine. Send me your addresses and I'll make the pins as accurate as possible.

[Lucius]

Woo! According to the USPS website it arrived this morning. Going to fire that bad boy, so to speak, after the gym.

[davecmu]

I have corrected Davecmu's pins and mine. Send me your addresses and I'll make the pins as accurate as possible.

Good job, Paul - you've managed to pin my mailbox on the video location marker! :lol:

[richmondesi]

Good job, Paul - you've managed to pin my mailbox on the video location marker! :lol:

I'd say that's pretty accurate :w00t:

[Lucius]

Got home from the gym and immediately hopped in the shower. Grabbed my favorite cream (as I imagine almost everyone did), Taylor's Shaving Shop, and got busy.

Great shave. Very comfortable. Razor's beautiful and unique, no doubt. Although it's done nothing to change my opinion of not really caring for thumb notches. As for the scales, hideous!:lol:

My friend's dragging me out to the Tiger Woods AT&T National golf tournament tomorrow, but unfortunately no cameras allowed so no pics of the razor with Tiger.

The plan is to get out to Arlington National Cemetery as well as a few other places downtown on Friday. Weather forecast looks good. Bill's graciously allowed me an extra day should I want to do something special with it on the 4th. Looks like I'll be watching 4 hours of soccer that night starting at 7 so I think fireworks are probably out. Don't know that I could get a good picture of the razor with the fireworks anyway. If I can't come up with something to do with it on the 4th I'll send it on to the next person on Friday. If I do keep it over the weekend I won't shave with it after Friday morning, out of fairness to everyone else and to keep my uber coarse facial hair from dulling it up too much.

Thanks for the opportunity Bill.

[richmondesi]

Got home from the gym and immediately hopped in the shower. Grabbed my favorite cream (as I imagine almost everyone did), Taylor's Shaving Shop, and got busy.

Great shave. Very comfortable. Razor's beautiful and unique, no doubt. Although it's done nothing to change my opinion of not really caring for thumb notches. As for the scales, hideous!:lol:

My friend's dragging me out to the Tiger Woods AT&T National golf tournament tomorrow, but unfortunately no cameras allowed so no pics of the razor with Tiger.

The plan is to get out to Arlington National Cemetery as well as a few other places downtown on Friday. Weather forecast looks good. Bill's graciously allowed me an extra day should I want to do something special with it on the 4th. Looks like I'll be watching 4 hours of soccer that night starting at 7 so I think fireworks are probably out. Don't know that I could get a good picture of the razor with the fireworks anyway. If I can't come up with something to do with it on the 4th I'll send it on to the next person on Friday. If I do keep it over the weekend I won't shave with it after Friday morning, out of fairness to everyone else and to keep my uber coarse facial hair from dulling it up too much.

Thanks for the opportunity Bill.

Don't even think about going to that without taking a pic with a camera phone of the razor with Tiger in the background:mad:

:001_tongu

[Lucius]

Don't even think about going to that without taking a pic with a camera phone of the razor with Tiger in the background:mad:

:001_tongu
Cells phones are banned too. Pretty much everything is banned, including fun I'm sure. Hoping the drinky drinks are free otherwise it's gonna be a long day (I'm not a golf fan, if you couldn't tell).

[davecmu]

I've got nothing material to add (besides begging for some quality pics at Arlington with that razor), but I wanted to say "Go Team Venture!"

Also, my friend Ross' wife looks exactly like Dr. Mrs. The Monarch.

[Lucius]

Also, my friend Ross' wife looks exactly like Dr. Mrs. The Monarch.

Hot. Does she have the voice?

"Who the hell is Jack-leen Onassis?"

[BillEllis]

If any of you have posted SOTD pics with the WMTR, can you post the pic and the link to it on the SOTD thread if you haven't already done so?

[Lucius]

As I feared, Washington DC on the 3rd of July is not the best time to head downtown. I literally spent 25 minutes trying to find a parking spot somewhere somewhat close to the National Mall. Nothing doing. At that point it was starting to sprinkle and I was getting road rage from all the tourists so I decided to call it a day. While I have no pictures, rest assured the razor has driven by the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, White House, and National WWII Memorial.

That being said, I didn't realize the post office shut down at noon today until I went to ship the razor off. So since I have no choice to keep it until Monday I may try to do some more with it on Sunday if I have the time.

Without further ado, my trip to Arlington National Cemetery:

Memorial to the 101st
http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/4402/img0286awx.th.jpg (http://img16.imageshack.us/i/img0286awx.jpg/)

On top of the Memorial Gate, looking east towards DC
http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/5900/img0287h.th.jpg (http://img401.imageshack.us/i/img0287h.jpg/)

President Taft's grave site
http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/3277/img0289avb.th.jpg (http://img11.imageshack.us/i/img0289avb.jpg/)

General Omar Bradley's grave site. I didn't feel it was appropriate for me to go stomping across several other grave sites to get the razor in the picture.
http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/8044/img0291p.th.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/img0291p.jpg/)

View looking east towards DC from the Custis-Lee Mansion. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arlington_House,_The_Robert_E._Lee_Memorial)No where to put the razor and get the background in the shot. From left to right, some notable things you can see are Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_of_the_National_Shrine_of_the_Immaculate_ Conception), The Kennedy Center, The Lincoln Memorial, The Old Post Office (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_post_office_pavilion), The Washington Monument, and the US Capitol Building.
http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/5784/img0292k.th.jpg (http://img515.imageshack.us/i/img0292k.jpg/)

By request of Mr. Ellis. I hope First Lt. Murphy did not take offense to this.
http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/6889/img0296.th.jpg (http://img182.imageshack.us/i/img0296.jpg/)

An overlook of the Potomac River off the GW Parkway, looking east into DC.
http://img188.imageshack.us/img188/9899/img0297jxk.th.jpg (http://img188.imageshack.us/i/img0297jxk.jpg/)

[whitebar]

What historic locations. The WMTR is really seeing the sights!

[brothers]

I love the photo of Lt. Murphy's marker. Thanks for getting that one, with the razor. The razor is certainly travelling, as intended. This project is heading for some well-deserved legitimate public recognition sooner or later. The momentum is carrying it in that direction now.

[BillEllis]

Great group of photos, Lucius. I like all of them. Putting the razor in the foreground of important spots in our country is what gives this WMTR tour a bit of history of its own.

I would hope that Lt. Murphy would be pleased knowing that there are folks who recognize the intended respect for him by wanting to share the same spot on this earth for a brief moment in time. The razor has been in the company of some great men and he might be satisfied that he is included.

And, hey... How many guys in Arlington can say that the spirit of Geronimo rode shotgun for Lucius to visit Lieutenant Murphy?

[brothers]

I am very interested in knowing the current status and activities of our little but impressive World's Most Travelled Razor. Wherever it may be, I know for sure that it is encountering some really nice folks and seeing some impressive local points of interest to all the rest of us. The anticipation is building!

[Lucius]

I sent it off to Nashville yesterday.

[Gogo]

I sent it off to Nashville yesterday.

Getting fired up!!

[richmondesi]

Lucius, which pic would you like for the map?

[BillEllis]

I'm taking a break for a while, guys. Gary/brothers has agreed to steer the ship while I catch up on some pressing things. You guys are doing good - I'm proud of ya.

take good care...
Bill

[richmondesi]

I'm taking a break for a while, guys. Gary/brothers has agreed to steer the ship while I catch up on some pressing things. You guys are doing good - I'm proud of ya.

take good care...
Bill

Take care Bill! You are really appreciated:smile:

[ZethLent]

I'm taking a break for a while, guys. Gary/brothers has agreed to steer the ship while I catch up on some pressing things. You guys are doing good - I'm proud of ya.

take good care...
Bill

Indeed Bill, Take care. And I hope Glen's post hasn't left a bad taste in your mouth.

[brothers]

Getting fired up!!

Do you have a visitor yet? The anticipation is fun, but then the real fun begins! Can't wait to hear about the razor's trip to Tennessee!

[Lucius]

Lucius, which pic would you like for the map?
I'm good with either Audie Murphy or the one on top of the Gate looking into DC. Let me know if you want the exact locations.

[Gogo]

Well Boys, the WMTR made it back to the South!
I picked it up today and it's everything that's been said and more!:drool:
Unfortunately I'm going out of town for the weekend so I won't be able to post any pictures of the razor in Music City. I should be able to get some stuff up Monday or Tuesday. I hope everyone's having a great week!
gogo

[richmondesi]

I'm good with either Audie Murphy or the one on top of the Gate looking into DC. Let me know if you want the exact locations.

Yes, I'd like to have an exact location if possible. I think both are excellent pictures. What do you guys think? Thanks for the great turn and the pics! :001_smile

[Gogo]

So to quench your burning desires for more shots of the WMTR, here's a start:

First, let's play a game. Can you find the difference between the two shots of my Shave Den (besides the awful photography)?

http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17783http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17784
(Scroll for the answer)
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
If you guessed the Ellis WMTR you're right!!
http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17789

[Gogo]

So this afternoon I stropped up the ole WMTR for a run. I used some of my classy stuff before, after and during the shave. It was a VERY comfortable shave! Stay tuned for some field trip shots!!

Irisch Moos-Rooney 1/1 Finest-WMTR-Thayer's Superhazel-Musgo Real AS
http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17790


P.S. If you care, I MUCH prefer the GD on the right to the JD on the left.

[richmondesi]

Well, due to the overwhelming response :rolleyes:, I chose to update the map with the pic of the WMTR on the top of Memorial Gate. Also, Whitebar's location has been made precise if you would care to look.

MAP IS UPDATED :w00t::w00t::w00t:

[whitebar]

Thanks Paul, you're doing great work on the map!

[brothers]

Thanks Paul, you're doing great work on the map!

Yes you are Paul. I'm a little behind, but I'm going to get you the location of the Sod House in the very near future. Sorry it's taking me so long.

Lucius, that shot of the razor at the gate to Arlington is an impressive photo.

Gogo, I was going to say just the opposite. JD is OK by me. That Puma/Ellis combo is about as close to shaving perfection as I can imagine. We're looking forward to more from Tennessee, when you've had the time to do a little travelling of your own.

[Bobtrumpet]

http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17790


P.S. If you care, I MUCH prefer the GD on the right to the JD on the left.

Some very nice Tennessee "after shave" you have there! :001_smile (Well, you don't drink it before you shave, do you?)

[richmondesi]

Yes you are Paul. I'm a little behind, but I'm going to get you the location of the Sod House in the very near future. Sorry it's taking me so long.

Lucius, that shot of the razor at the gate to Arlington is an impressive photo.

Gogo, I was going to say just the opposite. JD is OK by me. That Puma/Ellis combo is about as close to shaving perfection as I can imagine. We're looking forward to more from Tennessee, when you've had the time to do a little travelling of your own.

No problem. Map has been updated with more precise coordinates for the sod house. Check it out!:001_smile

[Lucius]

Lucius, that shot of the razor at the gate to Arlington is an impressive photo.

Thank you. I took a few years of photography in high school, but I think the credit for this one goes to the subject(s).

[brothers]

I feel that this is going to be a good week. The "World's Most Photographed Razor":001_smile is currently in Nashville, getting ready to go on another short journey to another far-away place with some more interesting folks and sites to visit.

[Gogo]

Some very nice Tennessee "after shave" you have there! :001_smile (Well, you don't drink it before you shave, do you?)


Pre-shave, Aftershave, Duringshave. Anytime is a good time for TN whisky!

[Gogo]

I got a chance to take our little friend on a site-seeing tour of Music City. She had a great time. First up is the world famous Broadway where some of the greatest country musicians cut their teeth.

The first one shows some of the most popular spots: Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, Robert's Western World and the Stage among others.
http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17830

This is on the other side of the street with the Ernest Tubb Record Store.
http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17831

Here's a decorative guitar on the corner of Broadway and 5th Avenue. The WMTR is ironically next to Willie Nelson's face, not much of a shaver, but a legend all the same!
http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17832

What trip to Nashville would be complete without a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame?
http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17833

Lastly, I dropped by my school, Montgomery Bell Academy, where I've taught and coached for the past 8 years. MBA has a 142 year tradition of strong academics and athletics. Below is a statue commemorating the film, "Dead Poet's Society" authored by an MBA alumnus. Robin Williams's character is based off of a former MBA teacher.
http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17835http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17836

I'm so grateful for my time with the razor. It was a real treat. I hope you've enjoyed my turn as much as I've enjoyed everyone else's. This afternoon I sent it to Connecticut for the next leg!

[Gogo]

A tropical theme for my shave today:

Shavemac 44140
Superlather of MWF and Trumper's Coconut Cream
WMTR
Thayer's Superhazel
Royall Bay Rhum
Hydrolast Peppermint ASB

For the last several years I've been a member of the US National Boomerang Team. I know, you've never heard of it! Anyways I have some of my favorite competition 'rangs in the picture too. I thought it was the right thing to do.

http://badgerandblade.com/gallery/displayimage.php?imageid=17839

[richmondesi]

I told you it lived up to the hype! Which of the pictures do you want for the map?

[whitebar]

Nice boomerangs!

[smokelaw1]

OK, according to the USPS website, the razor has landed at my place. Good thing, as I purposefully got a less than stellar shave this morning in case I got to use this beauty tomorrow.
I'm still extremely busy at work, so might not be able to get quite the full walking tour of our historic spots that I had hoped to during the week, but should be able to get out to get a few pics before she goes back in the mail.

I'm mildly embarrassed to say how excited I am right now.

[richmondesi]

OK, according to the USPS website, the razor has landed at my place. Good thing, as I purposefully got a less than stellar shave this morning in case I got to use this beauty tomorrow.
I'm still extremely busy at work, so might not be able to get quite the full walking tour of our historic spots that I had hoped to during the week, but should be able to get out to get a few pics before she goes back in the mail.

I'm mildly embarrassed to say how excited I am right now.

You shouldn't be embarrassed. BTW, I find it really strange that I have a really good friend with the same name as you and is also the same professionally... He's in Austin though. :ohmy:

[Gogo]

I told you it lived up to the hype! Which of the pictures do you want for the map?

How about the guitar shot?

[Gogo]

Nice boomerangs!

Thanks! They've served me well!

[brothers]

Gogo, after seeing your photos, I really want to visit Nashville as a tourist with some time to spend taking it all in. Thanks!

[Gogo]

Gogo, after seeing your photos, I really want to visit Nashville as a tourist with some time to spend taking it all in. Thanks!

Let me know when you plan a trip and I'll be glad to help you. Thanks for the kind words!
Matt "Gogo" Golenor

[brothers]

Nice boomerangs!

Matt, do you make your own boomerangs?

[richmondesi]

How about the guitar shot?

Awesome. Do you have a cross street reference for accuracy?