Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
USS Wabash
Artifact IDMO 1941.7.93
Object Type
Model
Maker
Captain Frank Waters
Gifter
Captain Frank Waters
Date1922
Mediumwood, paint, string, metal, fabric
Dimensionsbase H 1 1/2 in x W 44 3/4 in x D 18 7/8 in (3.8 cm x 113.7 cm x 47.9 cm )
overall (on cradle) H 27 1/2 in x W 40 in x D 15 1/8 in (69.9 cm x 101.6 cm x 38.4 cm )
overall (on cradle) H 27 1/2 in x W 40 in x D 15 1/8 in (69.9 cm x 101.6 cm x 38.4 cm )
Physical DescriptionA three-masted, square-rigged wooden model of the Civil War screw frigate, USS WABASH. The ship has a gilt and black hull and white trim, a simplified deck design, elaborate rigging, and no sails. An American flag is attached to point at the bow. The name of ship is at the stern. The model sits on a dark stained two piece wood cradle
It is accompanied by a wooden base (stored separately). The base has a perimeter groove to allow for placement of a protective bonnet.
Historical NoteTwo retired sailors (Frank Waters and John Colbert) at Sailor’s Snug Harbor (a home for elderly seamen in Staten Island, New York) made this model as a gift for Roosevelt in April 1922. Walters and Colbert were longtime friends of FDR and they wished to express their gratitude for his service to sailors during World War I, when Roosevelt served as Assistant Secretary of the Navy. FDR assisted the men by obtaining copies of the ship’s plans for the WABASH from the Navy.It is accompanied by a wooden base (stored separately). The base has a perimeter groove to allow for placement of a protective bonnet.
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 StatusUnrestrictedCopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view
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