Heritage Auction Final Digital 11-17-2

Thank You
This gathering of 20 significant decoys is the result of the dedication of a group of collectors who
have given prized carvings from their collection to support the work of the Core Sound Waterfowl
Museum & Heritage Center. All contributions to this auction are 100% donations to the Museum
and its role in preserving the traditions of Core Sound.
We are indeed grateful to these collectors for their deep commitment to our work and to the cause
of preserving, documenting and sharing the rich decoy making traditions of our Down East communities.
Thank you to each of you for giving quality decoys that will make this auction a financial
success.
This auction is the result of many hours of work by a committee who realized the potential of the
2015 Heritage Auction and have met, called, emailed and “shared the vision” of an auction that
focuses on Core Sound decoys and the history they represent. Robbie Smith and Kroghie Andresen
of the Carolina Decoy Collectors Association have been vital parts of this event and we thank them
for believing the work of the museum is worthy of their investment of time and expertise. Thank you
Robbie and Kroghie!
We are especially indebted to Walter House of House Auction Company for his 17 years of dedication
to the Core Sound Museum and his willingness to work long hours before and after every sale to
make sure every auction is a success. Thank you Walter and Essie!
This auction catalog gives a glimpse of the knowledge of decoy historians from decades of recordings,
writings and handwritten notes. It serves as a foundational document for “why” these decoys are
being offered for the 2017 CSWM&HC Heritage Auction and why these pieces have an important
place in Core Sound decoy history. The museum seeks to share the meaning of these working decoys
while honoring the men whose artistry and knowledge of these waterfowl is reflected in their work.
Karen Willis Amspacher and Pam Davis Morris
Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Staff
7