Charles Rogers Canvasback Drake

Classic canvasback drake by Charles Rogers (Merced, CA) ca. 1900. Decoys by this maker are some of the earliest documented in California. Rogers parents are considered to be among the earliest pioneers in California. New York born Nathaniel and Pennsylvania born Jennie, came to California in 1849 via Cape Horn in search of gold. Rogers decoys were utilitarian tools utilized for his market hunting. However, their form transcends their use. This example is in service repaint by Rogers. Note the inlet neck seat. Measures 14” in length. See page 576 of Wildfowl Decoys of California by Michael Miller for a similar example. A wonderful piece of California sporting history.