Gray's Sporting Journal and Old Saybrook Wildfowler Decoys

[Vince Pagliaroli]

I have been a long time admirer, and collector of Wildfowler Decoys, as they were the first wooden decoys I ever hunted over in the 1960's. In my estimation they were the best factory decoys ever made, from a hunters standpoint. In the Winter 1981 issue of Gray's, DeCourcy Taylor wrote, "Pocket Knives and Spindle Lathes" a wonderful article about Wildfowler decoys. When Dick LaFountain was gathering information for his book about Wildfowler Decoys. I talked with him in his room, at the old Ohio show in Westlake. I asked if he ever read the article in Gray's, and he said he was unaware of it. I then went to Dean Dashner's room, full of books, and of course he had a copy. I bought it, took it to Mr. LaFountain, and gave it to him as a gift. As I have never bought the book, I wonder if that article in Gray's ever got any mention?

Anyone who loves Decoys, and Old Saybrook Wildfowlers, should seek out a copy of that Gray's issue. The writing and photo's are superb.

 

[D Dominski]

Dick LaFountain is one of the most knowledgeable experts on "WildFowler Decoys" I have met. We both share the passion of collecting these extraordinary Decoys, which reflects the Rich History of Wildfowling in our area. I met Dick 7 years ago and have become good friends. I believe these Decoys were one of the best wooden made factory Decoy's ever made. For more information on WildFowler Decoys go to L. I. Decoy Collectors Assoc. which Dick is heavily involved in.