attributed to Sam Smith (NC), Swan Island Club, Ruddy Duck

Knotts Island, NC, founded in 1872 and many of the early decoys were brought down from Long Island; Sam Smith from Long Island is the attributed maker of this ruddy duck, his birds were stocky and had wide hips, this is indeed a rare and important decoy; no brands present.

Length 13 in.

Former collection of Bob Timberlake.

Old gunning paint.