American clipper ship JAMES BAINES

Date1858

Object number00050682

NamePainting

MediumOil on canvas, framed

DimensionsOverall (frame): 295 x 370 x 30 mm
Overall (sight): 219 x 295 mm

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionDuring the short career of the James Baines the first voyage to Australia took 65 days from Liverpool to Melbourne in 1854 and 69½ days for the return passage including the famous 420 nautical miles (780 km) day's run. This American-built clipper ship made four voyages to Melbourne and back to Liverpool via the Indian Ocean.HistoryThe era of the clipper ships was dominated by a sense of romance, competition, national pride and innovative technology. The sleek and graceful ships were a symbol of modern America and a fundamental part of the expanding global economy. Their design concentrated on speed instead of cargo capacity and was a great benefit to shipping companies eager to transport goods quickly. The JAMES BAINES was built by the renowned Boston ship builder Donald McKay in 1854 and successfully set records for the quickest time taken to make a sea crossing. The JAMES BAINES sailed the transatlantic route between Boston and Liverpool in a record time of twelve days and six hours.SignificanceThe JAMES BAINES was a particularly beautiful clipper ships, known to have set records on its voyages between England and Australia. It was involved with trade and migration to Australia. It reflects the maritime traffic to Australia and competition between shipping lines generated by 19th century trade and economics.