Oscar Cronk Blacksmith Made Bear Trap

Oscar E. Cronk Jr. (1930–2025) was a renowned Maine outdoorsman whose legacy in trapping, scent-making, and wilderness tradition spanned over seven decades. Born in Haynesville, Maine, Cronk moved with his family to Wiscasset in 1942. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1950, he returned home and began digging marine worms, a lucrative trade at the time. His passion for the outdoors led him to trapping, a pursuit that became his lifelong vocation. Cronk's expertise in trapping was complemented by his skill in crafting effective animal scents and lures. In 1963, he and his wife, Edith "Edie" Pickering, established Cronk's Outdoor Supplies, initially operating from a small garage before expanding to a dedicated log cabin store in 1971. Their products gained national recognition, with retailers like L.L. Bean and the Kittery Trading Post carrying Cronk's lures. Notably, a mountain lion he hunted in Colorado is displayed at L.L. Bean's flagship store in Freeport, Maine. Beyond his business, Cronk was deeply involved in the trapping community. He served as president of the Maine Trappers Association from 1964 to 1978, during which membership grew significantly. He was also a founding member and vice president of the Sportsman's Alliance of Maine until 1978 . In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the Trappers Hall of Fame and received its Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. Cronk authored several books, including "They Call Him Wildcat," a biography of V.E. "Wildcat" Lynch, and "Pete Rickard, the Legendary Fox," chronicling the life of the founder of the Pete Rickard Co. These works reflect his deep knowledge and respect for the traditions of trapping and the outdoors. After 60 years in business, Cronk retired at the age of 91, selling Cronk's Outdoor Supplies to the Pete Rickard Co., ensuring the continuation of his product line . He passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 94, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of trapping and outdoor sportsmanship. 31"L open, jaws 14"