You might contact a gourd farm and see if they will fedex an “in the process of drying” one to you. I don’t have any specific recommendations for you but one that I’ve followed on Facebook is Welburn Gourd Farm in Fallbrook, CA. (760)728-4271.
Info@welburngourdfarm.com.
That sucks that you were ripped off. At least this one has a Facebook “presence” so hopefully better luck. Or you can search for others there.