US Great White Fleet arrival in Martin Place

Date1908

Object number00050215

NamePhotograph

MediumSilver gelatin print

DimensionsOverall: 355 x 470 mm
Sight: 280 x 400 mm

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionOne of the many events scheduled during the visit of the Great White Fleet was a march by the US sailors up Martin Place which was decorated for the occasion.HistoryIn 1907 American President Roosevelt ordered the Atlantic Battle Fleet of the US Navy on an ambitious voyage around the world. In December 1907 led by the flagship CONNECTICUT, the Atlantic Fleet consisted of 16 battleships painted white as all US Navy ships were in times of peace. The ships sailed in four divisions of four ships each and visited six continents, 26 countries and 32 ports. It carried 614 officers, 13,504 other crew and consumed 435,000 tons of coal, more than any other naval expedition. It was the largest fleet to ever accomplish a circumnavigation of the globe. SignificanceThis photograph commemorates the important visit of the Great White Fleet to Australia in 1908, a US exercise to demonstrate their naval strength and build national alliances. It is representative of the production of souvenir items for the visit.