R. Madison Mitchell
Robert Madison Mitchell, Sr. was born on March 11, 1901, at Oakington, near Swan Creek, in Harford County, Maryland. It is extremely unlikely that any other man on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay has carved as many decoys as Madison Mitchell. For over fifty years he produced fine decoys whose numbers reach into the thousands.
Mr. Mitchell turned out many different decoys, including some ducks that rarely frequent the Chesapeake Bay region, some Mourning Doves, and a very few pigeons. He also developed a fancy decorator for lamps or wall decorations, as well as a sturdy Canada Goose scooter, cast iron book ends, and sink box decoys.
He was an avid and active supporter of the Havre de Grace Decoy Festival, an annual event held in May, and the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum.
R. Madison Mitchell was undoubtedly the most prolific carver on the Susquehanna Flats and his decoys will always be admired for their classic simplicity, clean lines, and ability to attract ducks.
Our 29th Annual Banquet will be held on
Friday March 13, 2026.
Level Vol. Fire Hall- 6:00 PM
Make your reservations now!
March 13th the Directors of the R Madison Mitchell Endowment Trust will be hosting its 29th annual dinner to be held at the Level Volunteer Fire Co. located in Havre de Grace, Md. This is always a great event and proceeds benefit the HDG Decoy Museum. This year we will be celebrating what would be Mr Mitchells 125th Birthday! Pit Beef, Ham, Turkey, Shrimp and Oysters are on the menu.
Tickets are available now, you can call to reserve seating @ 410-459-1620 or 410-734-7709. See you there!!
