Marty Hanson

Marty Hanson post area.

Comments

[John Allen]

Hello Marty, I am in possession of 5 old decoys in very good shape, that my Grandfather must have only used a few times. I have been trying to identify the origin /carver of these birds and some history about them. I wish I were in a financial position where I wouldn't need to sell them, because I would love to keep them around for a while. However, I'm ready to let them go, and that way my Grandfather can help me move to Southern California where there are more career opportunities for me.

My Grandfather was born in 1895, and lived most all his life in Racine Wisconsin. I have been attempting to identify the origin of these birds, and trying to figure out the value so that I don't get taken advantage of.

If you are interested in them, here are some details: Original paint, I can see that there is kind of a "Y" marking using the paint brush on the tail of each bird. I also see an embossed stamp of either what is an 800 or 1800 on the top side of one of the Bluebill's tails. They are hllow wood, I can see the wood grain on the backs, they are stamped with an "A" and "N" about 2" apart on the bottom once up at the front of the bird then again near the back (and the wieght is screwed on in between the "A" and "N"). The bills are carved, the three Bluebills have glass eyes, and I think the Canvasbacks may have some sort of tacks for eyes (almost look glass too). The birds have a visible seam up about 3/4" from the bottom and some have a visible seam on the neck some you still can't see the seam. The two Canvasbacks are 18" - 19" long, the Bluebills are 14" long.

How can I get some pictures to you?
I've posted some pics on this website on the "NAME THAT BIRD" page.
http://www.woodenwaterfowldecoys.com/

Please let me know your advice.

Thanks,
John Allen

[John Allen]

PS. Marty, I forgot to mention that I posted them with the title of "Rustic Duck???" and my user ID is jallen3 on that site. SORRY