Charlie C. Davis was a life-long educator, having graduated from North Central High School in 1958, earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at IU in Bloomington, then returning home to Ramsey to teach social studies at North Harrison, becoming the assistant principal, and finally the principal. Charlie was also active in the community. He was an early member of the Ramsey Volunteer Fire Department and Ramsey Water Corporation. He was president of the Old Lake Club and a member of the Southern Indiana Rifle and Pistol Club.
Charlie’s interest in guns and shooting began with his family’s love of history. Both his mother and father’s families were early settlers of Harrison County. His great uncle served in the Spanish American War; his father served during WWII; and his brother served in Vietnam. Military history was a special interest of Charlie’s. His bookshelves were filled with nonfiction books covering all aspects of military history with a special interest in anything about World War II or Westward expansion.
Charlie was an avid collector of World War II military items. He was very precise in his collecting, noting the year, make, and manufacturer of each item he purchased and collected. He was very proud that his collections were so varied, including not only M1 Garands, but also helmets, helmet covers, canteens, cups, bayonets, scabbards and other items used by soldiers during WWII.
He was an early member of the Southern Indiana Rifle and Pistol Club, serving as its president for many years. His interest in competitive shooting motivated him to drive to New Albany to the pistol range every Wednesday and Friday night. He also set up a practice range in the backyard of his house and in an old chicken house that he could heat and practice during the winter months.
He traveled all over the country competing in shooting events including competing at Camp Perry in the National matches. He also shot competitive air pistol. In later years he enjoyed going to outdoor gun ranges to compete in competitive rifle matches.
He traveled to Montana and Wyoming to hunt prairie dogs several years in a row, braving bad weather, precarious roads, and not very nice accommodations.
Charlie was incredibly proud of his collections. His family hopes that the items will go to persons who will appreciate not only their unique contribution to American history, but also the man who spent his lifetime amassing his vast collection.
