Ep. 740 - Lessons from the Ward Brothers: Oliver “Tuts” Lawson on Decoy Tradition

Discover how a Crisfield carver kept Chesapeake Bay decoy traditions alive—and what he learned from the legends.

Host Katie Burke sits down with Oliver “Tuts” Lawson, a master decoy maker who grew up in the Ward brothers’ shop and spent decades shaping waterfowl art and heritage.

From carving his first birds at age eight to repairing hunting decoys for Eastern Shore clubs, Lawson shares stories of mentorship, craftsmanship, and community. Hear how oil paints, raised wings, and open-door shops defined a culture—and why preserving tradition matters more than chasing ribbons.

Takeaways:

• How Oliver Lawson learned carving and painting from Lem and Steve Ward
• Why oil paint creates depth and patina unmatched by modern acrylics
• The evolution from hunting decoys to ornamental birds—and why he returned to gunning style
• How early carvers shared techniques versus today’s secretive approach
• Stories behind rare swans, auctions, and the founding of the Ward Foundation
• Why tradition and accessibility keep decoy carving alive