James "Jim Buck" Beasley (NC, 1890-1973), Published Coot

Sea Gull, North Carolina, circa 1940s, carved and painted wood, published on page 252 of Gunnin' Birds by Kroghie Andresen.

Length 13 in.

From the Personal Collection of Mr. Kroghie Andresen Charlotte, North Carolina

Purchased from Ed Johnston in 1985.
Former collection of Harold Grimstead.

James was the son of renowned maker Solomon Beasley. While serving in the Coast Guard, Beasley utilized his downtime to craft decoys and boats, honing a style characterized by flat bottoms and prominent wooden keels. His work includes classic coot decoys—considered among North Carolina's most significant—as well as bluebills, ruddy ducks, and the rare teal. Beasley's decoys are celebrated for their sculptural quality and have been featured in publications like Gunnin' Birds by Kroghie Andresen and Waterfowl Heritage: North Carolina Decoys and Gunning Lore by Neal Conoley . Beyond carving, he guided sportsmen through local waterfowling lodges, contributing to the region's hunting traditions. Today, his decoys are highly prized by collectors and stand as enduring symbols of North Carolina's rich waterfowling heritage.

Original paint with light gunning wear.