Clarence T. Gardner Exceedingly Rare Golden Plover Pair

Dr. Clarence T. Gardner (1844-1907) and Newton Dexter (1838-1901) Little Compton, RI, c. 1885

In the 1930s, Frank D. Lisle purchased the summer home of Dr. Clarence Gardner. The summer home, built in 1883, was perfectly located on the productive shores of Sakonnet Point, ideal for fishing and hunting. Soon after the purchase, Lisle discovered Gardner and Dexter’s rig of shorebirds in an outbuilding on the property.

Newton Dexter was a civil engineer and an excellent taxidermist. While both gentlemen carved shorebirds, Dexter painted them. Information regarding this important rig was first published in Hal Sorenson’s 1966-67 Decoy Collector’s Guide.

These Rhode Island shorebird decoys exhibit black glass "shoe button" eyes, sturdy inserted bills, and carved raised wings. One of the birds is displaying its fall/winter plumage, the other is in spring/summer plumage. Original paint with light gunning wear.

Literature: Hal Sorensen, ed., "Decoy Collector's Guide: 1966-67 Annual," Burlington, IA, pp. 63-67, rigmates illustrated.