Ben Fulcher (NC, 1883-1953), Beach Robin

Ocracoke, North Carolina, circa 1910, carved and painted wood, iron stake, mounted to wood base
Length 8.5 in.
During the early years, Ben Fulcher sailed merchant ships for good money at the time. After returning to Ocracoke from his merchant shipping days, Ben became an excellent decoy carver, waterman, and hunting guide. Around 1910, Bill Gaskill hired him to help guide the many waterfowl clients of the Beacon Island hunting operation. Most of his surviving decoys are brant, duck decoys by him are very rare. A rig mate is published on page 118 of Shorebird Decoys of North Carolina by Kroghie Andresen.
Former collection of Chuck Riser.
From the Personal Collection of Mr. Kroghie Andresen, Charlotte, North Carolina
Additional high-resolution photos are available at www.lelandlittle.com

Original paint with moderate gunning wear, hit by shot.