EDWARD KIDDER

Maker Henry W Peabody & Co Australian Line (American, founded 1867)

Printer Rand, Avery & Co

Date1879

Object number00032185

NameClipper card

MediumInk on paper

DimensionsOverall: 165 x 101 mm

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionThis colour chromolithograph advertising card was produced for the clipper ship EDWARD KIDDERS. The pocket sized card is promoting the transport of freight between Boston and Melbourne in 1879. It features the American and Australian Coat of Arms with the logo of the Australian shipping line, Henry W Peabody & Co.HistoryClipper ship cards were one of the advertising methods used by ship owners to promote their vessels and transport schedules. In colourful print and bold designs they publicised the supposedly superior qualities of each vessel, often using images of maritime scenes, mythology, patriotism and women to promote their cause. The cards were largely manufactured during the late-19th century and were designed to be handed out at the docks. They were brighter and more appealing than the newspaper advertisements of the time but often used similar wording. They could be printed in up to seven different colours including blue, red, green white, black, brown, and yellow. Some printers also used gold, bronze and purple. The majority of clipper cards were produced when the popularity of the clipper ship was dwindling and merchants were opting for faster steam powered vessels. Clipper ships were largely active between 1845 and 1875. Their design concentrated on speed instead of cargo capacity, which was a great benefit for shipping companies eager to transport goods quickly. The sleek and graceful ships generated a sense of romance, competition, national pride and innovative technology. They were a symbol of American modernity and fundamental to the expanding global economy. The EDWARD KIDDER was a 1015 ton clipper ship that was built at Newburyport in 1874. In 1879 it was under the command of Master Joseph Park.SignificanceThe majority of clipper ship cards were discarded after the ships advertised date of travel passed. This surviving example is representative of the ship EDWARD KIDDERS and its role in Australian commerce and trade during the 19th century.