Publisher's Synopsis
The Book of Duck Decoys: Their Construction, Management, and History is a comprehensive guide to the art of building and using duck decoys, written by Ralph Payne-Gallwey in 1886. This book covers a wide range of topics related to the construction and management of duck decoys, including the materials and tools needed to build them, the different types of decoys, and how to use them effectively in the field. The book also delves into the history of duck decoys, tracing their origins back to ancient Egypt and exploring their use in various cultures throughout history. Payne-Gallwey provides detailed instructions for building different types of decoys, including those made of wood, cork, and other materials. He also discusses the importance of proper decoy placement and management, as well as the use of calls and other techniques to attract ducks to the decoys. Overall, The Book of Duck Decoys is a fascinating and informative read for anyone interested in the history and practice of duck hunting. It provides a wealth of practical information and advice for building and using decoys, as well as a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of this important hunting tool.Sir Ralph Frankland-Payne-Gallwey, 3rd Baronet, was one of numerous accomplished English gentlemen of the Victorian era. He, the third of six Yorkshire baronets holding the name Payne-Gallwey, was born on August 19, 1848, and died on November 24, 1916. He was educated at Eton, married Edith Alice Usborne in 1877, and was Magistrate for North Riding, Yorkshire. The couple had five children, of which their only son was killed in action in World War I. Payne-Gallwey was an extraordinarily talented engineer, historian, ballistics expert, artist, and sport hunter. These abilities are amply reflected in several books, some of which are considered to be among the most definitive of their subjects. Among the most notable are: The Fowler in Ireland ������� (1882); Shooting, Field and Covert ������� 2 vols. (1887), co-authored with Lord Walsingham; The Crossbow ������� (1903); Introduction to The Diary of Col. Peter Hawker, 1802-1853. 1903; The Projectile Throwing Machines of the Ancients ������� (1907); and Shooting High Pheasants ������� (1913).The present book, The Book of Duck Decoys ������� (1886), is clearly the most authoritative work on that subject.--Henry M. Reeves.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
