Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
New Bedford Whaling Brig
Artifact IDMO 1941.7.99
Object Type
Model
Maker
Unknown
Dateca. 1840
Mediumwood, string, ivory
Dimensionsbase H 1 1/4 in x W 44 1/4 in x D 15 1/4 in (3.2 cm x 112.4 cm x 38.7 cm )
overall (on cradle) H 29 in x W 39 in x D 11 1/2 in (73.7 cm x 99.1 cm x 29.2 cm )
Physical DescriptionA two-masted, square-rigged wooden model of an unidentified New Bedford whaling brig. The ship, which has the appearance of an antique, has a green and gilt hull and white trim. The sails are made of carved and painted wood. Miniature harpoons are seen on top of the after-cabin and the try-pot on deck in the waist of the ship. The model sits on a two piece cradle made of a whale's tooth. overall (on cradle) H 29 in x W 39 in x D 11 1/2 in (73.7 cm x 99.1 cm x 29.2 cm )
It is accompanied by a wooden base (stored separately) which has a perimeter groove to allow for the placement of a protective bonnet.
Historical NoteThis model of an unidentified New Bedford whaling brig is believed to have been made around 1840 by a seaman who served aboard the vessel. It is not known how FDR acquired this model, but it was in his collection as early as 1924. Roosevelt’s Delano ancestors included owners and captains of whaling ships. As a child, he heard whaling tales from family members and spent time in New Bedford, Massachusetts during frequent visits to the Delano homestead in nearby Fairhaven.
Additional Details
Credit LineEstate of Franklin D. Roosevelt
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesShip Models (National Archives Identifier 782457)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestricted
CopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view