Our Beginning

West Tennessee has a rich sporting dog heritage. Geographically, the area is recognized as the birthplace of America's pointing dog field trials, and as the home of the century-old National Field Trial Championship.  It is an important hub for bird dog enthusiasts the world over. Its proximity to the Mississippi flyway attracts many waterfowl hunters and others with retriever breed interests.

Located in Grand Junction, Tennessee, an hour east of metropolitan Memphis and within easy driving distance of Nashville, the Bird Dog Foundation, Inc. has established three outstanding facilities to preserve and perpetuate our bird dog, field trial and hunting traditions. Included within the facilities are four excellent collections.

The National Bird Dog Museum highlights more than forty breeds of bird dogs, including pointing, flushing, and retrieving breeds. To the Point - A Tribute to Pointing Dog by Dale Spartas and Tom Davis highlights the variety of the breeds, the training and the beauty of the sport.

The Field Trial Hall of Fame showcases the field trial superstars. These heroes both human and canine played a significant role in the development of the sporting breeds. Reflections on Bird Dogs and the Men Who Handled Them by Ed Mack Farrior will get you familiar with the experiences of the trainers and brief histories of winning dogs.

The Wildlife Heritage Center is a favorite family attraction. It has a variety of taxidermy mounts, a nature classroom and an expansive library complete with a children's reading corner.

The National Retriever Museum which showcases dogs and people dating back to the 1930's. The retrieving dog breed has a rich history originating from a variety of environments and backgrounds providing an exciting dimension to the sport dog history.