Capt. James Sprague

James Sprague, the grandfather of Chris Sprague, attained his title of “captain” by serving with the U.S. Life Saving Service. He is one of the earliest decoy carvers whose name can be associated with surviving decoys. The stools attributed to Sprague date as far back as the 1880’s and 1890’s. These decoys are characterized by an ice groove running between the shoulders and dowels that join the top and bottom pieces. Sprague carved the eyes and accented the wingtips with minor relief carving. Other identifying traits include deep-set eyes and inletted weights.