Water Activities & Cultural Craft at Harwich Historical Society
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 weeks
Fitness Level
Basic manual dexterity and patience required; no special fitness needed
Overview
Discover the art of decoy carving at Harwich Historical Society, where tradition meets craftsmanship amid Cape Cod’s stunning waters. Perfect for history buffs and outdoor lovers alike, this workshop offers a unique glimpse into coastal heritage.
Fall Decoy Carving Workshop
Age 18+ to book • 3 Hours • Up to 6 People
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About This Adventure
Immerse yourself in the art of decoy making at the historic studio of Anthony Elmer Crowell. Over ten weeks, guided by Master Woodcarver Paul Phillips, you'll master traditional bird carving techniques and create a working decoy. Join a community dedicated to preserving this unique folk art through hands-on workshops.
Duration
3 Hours/ 10 Weeks
About
Learn to make a working decoy in the original wood carving studio of renowned decoy artist Anthony Elmer Crowell! Students will learn traditional bird carving techniques and complete their ten-week course having created a working decoy. New this Fall we are also offering a Decoy Feather Painting Workshop.
These workshops will be led by Master Woodcarver, painter, and decoy maker, Paul Phillips, who has over 30 years of experience and has been demonstrating his craft at the Harwich Historical Society since the Crowell Barn Museum first opened to visitors. Through these carving and painting classes, the Society is dedicated to preserving this traditional folk art within the local community.
Students will be provided with introductory tools, wood, and additional supplies.
Adventure Tips
Bring comfortable clothes and gloves
Decoy carving can be messy and require ample hand and arm movement.
Arrive early for supplies and setup
Getting settled before each session helps maximize your carving time.
Respect the historical tools and environment
Help preserve the historic studio by handling tools carefully and cleaning up after sessions.
Practice patience with detailed carving
Realistic decoys require careful attention to detail, especially for beginners.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- American black duck
- Great blue heron
History
Decoy carving has been a vital part of Cape Cod’s hunting and fishing traditions since the early 1900s.
Conservation
The workshop promotes awareness of waterfowl conservation and the importance of sustainable hunting practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Workshop apron
Protects your clothing from wood shavings, glue, and paint.
Carving knives and tools (provided)
High-quality tools facilitate precise carving and detailed work.
Light source (lamp or headlamp)
Extra lighting helps when working on small details and in low light conditions.
Notebook and pencil
Ideal for sketching ideas, notes, and remember techniques learned.