50+ Years of Handling History with Care
Gunsight Antiques is a two‑person operation run out of Yelm, Washington — no showroom, no staff, just Janet and Bedford Hayes and a great deal of accumulated knowledge about the objects of 18th and 19th century American life.
Janet & Bedford Hayes
What started as a shared interest in Civil War‑era material has, over five decades, grown into a trusted source for collectors, museums, and institutions across the country. Janet and Bedford handle every piece themselves — from the first inquiry, through research and dating, to the day it's packed and shipped.
Every piece that comes through our door is examined, dated, and described plainly — no guesswork, no exaggeration. If we’re not certain, we’ll tell you so.
““The web site your friends won't tell you about.””
From Attic to Archive
Every item that carries our name goes through the same four‑step process, whether it’s a fifty‑dollar button or a museum‑grade uniform.
Source & Acquire
Pieces come to us from estates, established collectors, and long‑standing trade contacts built up over 35 years.
Research & Date
Each object is examined by hand and cross‑referenced against period records, makers’ marks, and known regimental history.
Describe Plainly
Condition, repairs, and provenance are stated in plain language. If something is uncertain, we say so rather than guess.
Pack & Place
Items are insured and carefully packed for shipment, whether they’re headed to a private collector or a museum case.
A Short History
A Collector’s Habit Becomes a Trade
Janet and Bedford began collecting Civil War‑era pieces as a personal interest, gradually building the knowledge and contacts that would later become the backbone of the business.
Museum & Private Collection Placements
As their reputation for careful, honest dealing grew, pieces they’d handled began finding their way into museum cases and respected private collections around the country.
50+ Years In, Still Answering the Door Ourselves
Gunsight Antiques remains a two‑person operation by choice. Every inquiry is still answered personally, and every piece is still handled the way it’s always been done here.