GLENFALLOCH

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

Printer Rand, Avery & Co

Date1882

Object number00032186

NameClipper card

MediumInk on paper

DimensionsOverall: 167 x 100 mm

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionThis postcard size coloured chromolithograph card is an advertisement for the clipper ship GLENFALLOCH. It promotes the ship's voyage between Boston, Launceston and Brisbane carrying freight. It features a depiction of the American Coat of Arms, the Australian Coat of Arms and the logo of the Australian shipping line Henry W Peabody & Co. It uses the colours of red, tan, black, blue and gold in its design.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 GLENFALLOCH was a British bark of 449 tons. In 1882 it was under the command of Captain John Saul. SignificanceThis clipper ship card is representative of freight transport between America and Australia during the 19th century. It highlights the prominent role of the shipping company, Henry W Peabody & Co.