A 1930’s Animal Trap Company Decoy
The Animal Trap Company of North America (ATCNA) produced hunting decoys for a greater number of years than any other decoy factory. Long before they produced decoys they were a major producer of animal traps. In 1918, they began to produce wood decoys in Lititz, Penn. and later in Pascagoula, Miss. This company produced a number of models, sizes, and in various finishes. Their wood decoys were all made on ducplicating lathe machines. Most of the wood decoys were cold stamped on the bottom with the word “Victor” which was ATCNA ‘s trade name.
In a quest to be the largest manufacturer of decoys, the ATCNA purchased the Pratt decoy business in 1937 and the assets of the Mason Decoy Co. (see previous decoy corner article) in 1939. Another acquisition was made in 1940 when Animal Trap purchased the Poitevin Decoy Co. in Pascagoula, Miss. and consolidated all decoy manufacturing there. Additional acquisitions were made in 1944 (Cumbest Decoy Co.) and 1946 (Moulded pulp products Of Gilbert Clock Corp.).
Animal Trap is best known for their wood decoys but they also produced the Veri-Lite paper mache’ and Victor plastic (tenite) models. All Victor plastic decoys produced until 1976 were made by Majestic Moulding in Ohio. Animal Trap Co. ended their wood constructed decoys in the 1950’s.
The ATCNA ceased manufacturing in the 1970’s because of hurricane Agnes in 1972 but continued to sell purchased decoys sold under the 
“Woodstream” name for a number of years later.
According to “Warman’s Duck Decoys” by Russell Lewis, the value range of Animal Trap decoys are as follows:
• Paper mache’ decoys-$75-$250
• Plastic decoys-$10-$75
• Wooden decoys-$50-$300
As always, values for rare produced species or decoys in excellent condition command higher values. Check with reputable Decoy Collectors in your area for actual value.
Animal Trap Co. produced millions of decoys during their heyday 1918-1972 so it is not uncommon to find these at Auctions, garage sales, antique shops or hidden away by forgotten waterfowlers.
I hope those of you with a “Victor” decoy on your mantle enjoy the history of the largest Decoy Manufacturer in North America!