History

The first National Duck Calling Contest was held on Main Street in Stuttgart, Arkansas, on November 24, 1936, in connection with the annual Arkansas Rice Carnival.  The contest was originated by Thad McCollum of Stuttgart.  Dr. H.V. Glenn sold the idea of sponsoring the contest to the American Legion.  The American Legion then appointed a Duck Calling Committee of three men: Dr. Glenn, chairman; Mr. McCollum and Arthur Shoemaker, to stage the event.  Later, Verne Tindall of Stuttgart, replaced Mr. Shoemaker as a committee member, and the contest was held. Total list of entries for the first duck calling contest was 17.  Financial arrangements were such that not a large prize was offered. The winner was Thomas E. Walsh of Greenville, Miss.  He won the contest without the use of a duck call. Mr. Walsh, who raised ducks as a hobby at his home in Mississippi, produced the sounds in his throat.  He walked off with a hunting coat valued at $6.60, purchased by the American Legion from John Oberly Clothing Store. First prize in 1947 was $1,000 cash. Today's winner receives a prize package worth more than $25,000. The only other contestant to win first prize without use of a duck call was Herman Caillouet of Greenville, Miss., who won the event in 1942.  The only woman to ever win the contest was Pat Peacock of Stuttgart, Ark., in 1955 and 1956. The first contest was a far cry from the present day event, but it was the beginning of the now worldwide contest, which attracts thousands of sportsmen annually from all over the United States. Today over 65 contests across the United States are held to qualify competitors to come to Stuttgart on Thanksgiving weekend to vie for the title of World Champion.