Clarence T. Gardner Dowitcher

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."

This Rhode Island shorebird decoy exhibits black glass "shoe button" eyes, a sturdy inserted bill, and carved raised wings. The underside of the bird retains the "George R. Starr Collection" wood duck stamp. Original paint with minor flaking, gunning wear, and minor chip out of wing tip.

Provenance: Dr. George Ross Starr Collection Private Collection

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

Provenance

Dr. George Ross Starr Collection Private Collection