William McLellan

(1897 - 1987) Bureka, CA

While William McLellan may have carved other decoys, he is known only for his single rig of about seventy Pacific brant. This rig contains sixty to sixty-five floaters and nine fliers (Kangas, Survey 267). The decoys are made of solid redwood to withstand the harsh elements of Humbolt Bay. McLellan positioned the heads and necks in various attitudes. The wings of the fliers are both adjustable and removable. Each one is made up of a light wooden frame covered with cloth pre-treated with “dope” (Engers 270). This impressive rig features the clean lines typical of the area.