The most comprehensive collection of wildfowl carving in the world invites you to explore this unique, indigenous North American art form from antique working decoys to internationally acclaimed contemporary sculpture and painting. Named for brothers Lem and Steve Ward of Crisfield, MD, whose skill and vision elevated decoy carving to fine art, the museum works to promote, preserve and perpetuate wildfowl art. Located in Salisbury, Maryland, the museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from noon to 5 pm. The Museum is closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. The Galleries Home to the premiere collection of wildfowl art, the museum's interpretive galleries lead you through wildfowl art's history and heritage, examining the relationship of man and nature which gave rise first to primitive ingenuity, then to flights of artistic genius... Two galleries, the Art LaMay Gallery and the Welcome Gallery, feature assorted changing exhibits. Both galleries are changed a few times each year, ensuring that there's always something new to see! Click here for more information. Educational Programs and Tours The Ward Museum runs educational programs for both children and adults. Activities like soap carving, bird watching and Environmental Reading entertain children in a variety of age groups. Carving classes taught by respected artists offer adults the opportunity to learn from the masters. Topical seminars, workshops, demonstrations and lectures promote wildfowl art and foster environmental awareness. Tours for both school children and adult organizations are available. Tours are led by experienced docents along with a short carving demonstration. Click here for children's programs and school tours. Click here for a schedule of adult programs. Volunteers Join a growing group of enthusiastic people who enjoy art, history and taking part in all the facets of the Ward Museum. Volunteers carry out the mission of the Ward Museum in every way and support efforts to preserve and promote regional cultural traditions. Volunteer opportunities include being a docent, taking part in our special events, performing administrative duties and working with an expanding education program. Volunteer training is a constant endeavor with a formal training class annually. Volunteers are honored at various events throughout the years. Enjoy social and educational activities with fellow volunteers. Group Tours Tours can be arranged for groups of all sizes and ages. Bus tours are welcomed. All tours are led by experienced docents who bring the collection to life with anecdotes and details about the individual carvings, the evolution of decoy making into a pure American art form, and area history. A resident carver is available for a short carving demonstration upon request. Group tours take approximately 1 ½ hours but can be modified to meet the needs of the group. The museum is handicapped accessible. Call ext 120 for rates and scheduling. Click here For a map and driving directions to the museum. Click here for information on renting the facility.