Vintage 1950s Swisher & Soules Cast Aluminum Double-Sided Owl Decoy

Vintage 1950s Swisher & Soules Cast Aluminum Double-Sided Owl Decoy – Great Folk Art Character, Field-Used

Item Description

An Authentic Piece of Mid-Century Hunting Americana with Incredible Character Up for sale is an original, double-sided cast aluminum Great Horned Owl hunting decoy manufactured by the famous Swisher & Soules Decoy Company of Decatur, Illinois. This is the scarcer metal variant, heavily built to withstand decades of outdoor utility. For collectors who prefer an authentic, rugged "field-used" look over a sterile shelf piece, this decoy features immense visual charm and a genuine folk art presence

Key Features & Markings Cast Metal Durability:

Built from thick cast aluminum with zero structural damage—no cracked wings, broken ears, or compromised metal.Double-Faced Design: Features a full-bodied 3D mold showcasing identical owl faces on both sides, a signature trait designed to capture a crow's attention from any angle.Embossed Base Stamping: The lower branch cross-member features the classic raised lettering: "SWISHER & SOULES DECATUR ILL. PAT PEND".

Dimensions: Measures approximately 13 inches tall.

Historical Backstory Dating back to the mid-20th century, these heavy metal decoys were the premium choice for serious crow hunters and farm management. Crows and owls are natural enemies, so hunters would mount these owls high in the tree line to trigger a territorial mobbing reflex from local bird populations. Because these were expensive working tools, they were frequently maintained and altered by their owners over the years.

Item Specifics Brand: Swisher & SoulesEra: Circa 1950s

Material: Heavy Cast Aluminum

Markings: Embossed

Manufacturer Name & Location (Decatur, IL)

Design: Double-Face / 3D Full-Bodied Form

Subject: Great Horned Owl / Scare-Bird Decoy

Condition Statement This item is in honest, field-used vintage condition.

The aluminum body is solid and structurally perfect with no cracks or repairs. True to its working history, it features an old painted-over finish along with visible surface . wear, small scuffs, and a beautiful weathered patina from real-world outdoor exposure. The original glass eyes are missing, and the sockets are completely clear, leaving it ready for easy restoration or left as-is for a raw, architectural folk art display. Please see all detailed photos for exact cosmetic condition.