News Release

Louisville museum up in arms

One lunged, and his sword sought the other's belly. For a moment the action was too fast to follow, and then it was over. The younger man fell to the floor, finished by the older one's pommel to his jaw.

This fencing duel at the Frazier Historical Arms Museum in Louisville was just beginning. Demonstrations are just one of the museum's highlights. With three floors of exhibits, live demonstrations and thousands of authentic period weapons, the Frazier offers hours of fun.

The tour starts on the third floor where you are greeted by cannons and armor surrounding a "Beefeater" guard. This is your introduction to a historical exhibit about the Tower of London.

Coming around the corner, you find yourself face to face with a Norman knight from the battle of Hastings in 1066. He bears down on visitors from horseback, long spear at the ready. Chain mail and a long triangular shield protect him from the blows of the enemy. The only thing missing from this lifelike reproduction is the noise of battle.

More of these dynamic, life-size displays await on this floor, bringing historic battles vividly to life from the dark ages through the colonization of India, America and Africa and the ultimate end of the British Empire.

History is detailed with displays of genuine period weapons. Video presentations provide detailed insight into everything from Viking battlefield tactics to the manufacturing of chain mail and important battles in British history.

The second floor is dedicated to the conquest of the American Frontier. This floor is a real treat, with many items that once belonged to famous historical figures. A bible of the Daniel Boone family is here. So is a bow believed to have been used by the outlaw chief, Geronimo. Teddy Roosevelt's gun, used on hunting expeditions in Africa, can also be seen.

This floor houses a large collection of weapons that once belonged to notable Americans, including Kentuckians. Many of these weapons were used in the Civil War, and there is a room dedicated to the tumultuous story of Kentucky, its residents and soldiers during that war.

On the first floor, you will find a large collection of one-of-a-kind weapons and valuable collector's pieces. This floor also houses the gift and snack shops.