Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Phoenix Caisson Model
Artifact IDMO 1947.93.104
Object Type
Model, Instructional
Maker
Unknown
Date1944
Mediumsilver, silver-plated metal, paint on wood
Dimensionsbase H 1 1/2 in x W 5 1/4 in x D 2 3/8 in (3.8 cm x 13.3 cm x 6 cm )
Physical DescriptionA small silver model of a Phoenix caisson. The model is mounted on a black-painted wooden base with undulating metal simulating ocean waves. Mounted on either side of the model is a small silver plaque with the engraved name: PHOENIX.
Historical NoteBritish Prime Minister Winston Churchill gave President Roosevelt this silver model labeled “Phoenix," along with a silver model labeled "Whale" (see MO 1947.93.103), during the Second Quebec Conference in September 1944. They depict two of the elements used to create enormous artificial harbors off the Normandy coast after the June 6, 1944 D-Day invasion. These harbors made it possible to supply and reinforce the Allied invasion force. Enormous concrete caissons (nicknamed Phoenixes) were an important part of the ingenious plan for the harbors. Laid end to end, they helped to form a giant breakwater.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteDonated to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum as a bequest of Franklin D. Roosevelt on February 20, 1947.
Credit LineEstate of Franklin D. Roosevelt
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGift Items and Commemorative Artifacts (National Archives Identifier 782690)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedCopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view
Related Links
