Some Basenji History

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Gilkey Letters
Are basenjis sighthounds?

Have you ever wondered about past BCOA history and club business?  Ever wondered just what they were thinking when the standard was revised?  I have.  I recently came across the following letters written by George L. Gilkey to BCOA Board and BCOA general members during the time frame of 1958-1965

Just who is Geo. L Gilkey?  He is better known as Rhosenji basenjis and was one of four charter BCOA members.  At the time of his letters he was Chairman of the Standard Committee.  While the majority of the letters deal with the Standard and possible revisions - the longest letter (18 pages) has to do with Dr. Gilkey's frustration with the club in general.  I have tried to put them is some sort of date order but a few are hard to place.
 

Have you ever wondered what the breed fancy was up against trying to get our beloved breed accepted into lure coursing and/or to be able to continue to lure course?  I was, so when presented the opportunity to read up on it, I delved right in.  I figure if I am interested, others might also be.

The following article was found in the 1987 Sighthound Review. At the time of the article basenjis have already been allowed to lure course for 6 years; successfully.  Apparently some disgruntled ASFA members "true sighthound owners" wanted ASFA to rescind the basenjis ability to course.  The implication was that a few select powers that be whispered into the right ears and there was a movement to kick the basenji out of ASFA.  The following is a compilation of opinions of ASFA and AKC coursing and breed judges - all of whom own more traditioanl sighthounds. Having read these opines - I will never be able to look at sighthound owners or judges in the same light ever again.  That said - since the breed is still coursing - alls well that ends well.

My hat is off to all of the pioneers who worked so hard to et our breed accepted in coursing - it was no easy feat.