TMCA  Turns 30 years old !!!!

The Origins of the TMCA by Robert J. Lee, TMCA Member # 1

In the Summer of 1976, several Nashville area military relic collectors would see each other at the Nashville Flea market on Friday nights. They gathered in a small group at the fair grounds and spoke enthusiastically about their hobbies. A WW1 collector, Dr. Barry Brown kept urging this informal group of collector friends to form an association of military collectors.

Inspired by Barry’s vision of a Tennessee collectors club, this small group of local Militaria collectors met at 3:pm on Sept 5, 1976. On this Sunday afternoon they gathered to approve a charter, by-laws and elect officers. They elected Robert J. Lee president, Jim Scott vice-pres., Dr. Barry Brown treasurer, David Lawrence sergeant-at-arms, and Warren Clopper as show chairman. The Tennessee Military Collectors association became a reality on this day.

It was agreed that a newsletter, “Order of the Eagle” (now called “THE TMCA NEWS”) would be published with informative articles and a classified section. A charter was approved which stated that the Tennessee Military Collectors Association would promote fellowship and commerce among the collectors of Tennessee, demonstrate to the public the value and worth of preserving military antiquities, and to establish a code of ethics for members to follow in the buying and selling of military relics.

The TMCA crest and membership card was designed by David Lawrence. The new membership cards were issued in 1977 starting with the TMCA officers.

1st TMCA Newsletter, October 1976

30 year Commemorative   TMCA Lapel Pin.

To honor our 30th year, David Lawrence, who designed the original logo, has designed a wonderful new pin that has been made and will be given to every active TMCA member (free) at the fall show.

Additional pins may be purchased for $3.00 each, until   limited supplies run out.

1st TMCA Newsletter, October 1976