DeWitt Cottage Heritage Celebrating the Decoy Legacy
130 Years overlooking the Virginia Beach Oceanfront
30 Years of the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum
Special Mark McNair Family Auction to Support the Museum
Virginia Beach, VA – September 20, 2025 – As part of our Heritage & Legacy Horizons celebration, the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum is proud to host a once-in-a-generation Live Auction & Evening Celebration featuring original decoy carvings by world-renowned artists Mark McNair, Ian McNair, and Colin McNair.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of artistry, heritage, and hospitality, including cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres provided by Il Gardino’s, and the rare opportunity to meet the entire McNair family in person. All proceeds will directly support the museum’s exhibitions, education programs, and community outreach initiatives.
Auction Highlights
Mark McNair – Creating an exclusive piece for this event, available for preview before the celebration.
Ian McNair – Offering a custom carving made especially for the occasion.
Colin McNair – Known for his stunning carvings of decoys, birds, whales, fish, and tap handles.
Each auction lot includes a framed provenance certificate signed by the artist.
Event & Auction Details
Date & Time:
Saturday, September 20, 2025
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
(People’s Auction Company will facilitate our Live Auction which begins online September 1, 2025 at 9:00 AM and concludes in person at 6:30 PM on September 20, 2025) **All auction bidders must register online
Location:
Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum at the historic deWitt Cottage
1113 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Admission:
$250 per couple – Limited tickets available (50)
$125 per individual – Limited tickets available (50)
Corporate Sponsorships:
Available at $2,500 – includes 6 event tickets, recognition, and promotional opportunities with corporate ticket holders an exclusive hour prior to the event start time.
Why Your Support Matters
Your contributions will help:
Underwrite new rotating exhibitions in our downstairs gallery
Expand Decoy Carving Workshops for both youth and adults
Enhance Conservation Education Programs in partnership with local schools
“This auction is a unique opportunity to acquire museum-quality folk art while ensuring that future generations can learn about our region’s natural and cultural heritage. Our downstairs gallery will also be dedicated to over 100 pieces of Mark McNair’s work, generously on loan from members Mark and Margie Cromwell.”
Aimee Rhodes, President, Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum