Wallace O'Neal, Sr. (NC, 1867-1955), Published Widgeon

Aydlett, North Carolina, circa 1900, carved and painted wood, published on page 191 of Gunnin' Birds by Kroghie Andresen.

Length 17.5 in.

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

Purchased from Julian Hamilton, Jr. on December 3, 1997.
Former collection of Julian Hamilton, Sr.

A skilled market hunter and commercial fisherman, O’Neal worked the waters of Currituck Sound and, by the early 1900s, operated four licensed hunting blinds. Renowned for his expert boat handling and marksmanship, he became a respected figure among coastal watermen.
O’Neal assembled an extensive decoy rig of over 500 wooden ducks and dozens of canvas geese and swans. Many were his own hand-carved creations, joined by works from fellow craftsmen like John & Pell Austin and the Lewark family. His carvings—especially of canvasbacks, redheads, bluebills, and widgeons—are celebrated for their elegant form and fine craftsmanship, reflecting both artistic skill and practical function in the golden age of North Carolina waterfowling.

Original paint with light gunning wear.