Skip to main content

U.S. Revenue Cutter, the U.S. "Morris"

After 1855
H. A. Roath (American, active 19th century)
Ship portraiture, a novelty in the late eighteenth century, gained popularity in the United States as pride in the country's naval and commercial power grew. Professional, amateur, and part-time artists, including many self-taught sailor-painters (perhaps including the unknown H. A. Roath), commemorated their favorite vessels. A print in the weekly periodical Ballou’s Pictorial in 1855 inspired this painting of the revenue cutter Morris, which was used by the United States Coast Guard to enforce customs regulations and combat smugglers, pirates, and privateers. Built in 1831 at the New York Navy Yard, the Morris was active until 1846, when a hurricane drove her ashore near Key West, Florida.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.