Jess Hepron Rare Hudsonian Godwit

Capt. Jess Hepron Townsend's Inlet, NJ, c. 1915 15 in. long

William J. Mackey, Jr. reported on decoys from this rig as being used "...by South Jersey market hunters for the Hudsonian Godwit or 'marlin.'" James R. Doherty identifies the maker of this rare species in his "Classic New Jersey Decoys" book. Original paint with even gunning wear and a tail chip.

Provenance: Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Collection

Literature: William J. Mackey, Jr., "American Bird Decoys," New York, NY, 1965, p. 63, rigmate illustrated. Richard A. Bourne Co., Inc., "Very Rare and Important American Bird Decoys from the Collection of the late William J. Mackey, Jr. of Belford, New Jersey," Hyannis, MA, Session I, 1973, lot 163, rigmate illustrated. James R. Doherty, "Classic New Jersey Decoys," Louisville, KY, 2011, p. 181, rigmate illustrated.

Provenance

Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Collection