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From Sydney to San Francisco - 'On the Line'
From Sydney to San Francisco - 'On the Line'

From Sydney to San Francisco - 'On the Line'

Maker (1869 - 1932)
Date1880
Object number00008741
NameEngraving
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall: 212 x 310 mm
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionThis engraving from the British newspaper The Graphic shows a group of passengers passing time on the deck of a vessel en route from Sydney to San Francisco. Some of the passengers are occupied knitting, talking, or reading, while others rest and sleep. A waiter is shown standing attentively with a tray of tea. The passengers pets - a large dog and parrot - appear to be keeping them company.HistoryIllustrated weekly magazines became increasingly popular in Europe and America during the mid 19th century. They used large eye catching illustrations to accompany articles on politics, war, travel, exploration, fine arts, science and literature. The Graphic was a British weekly illustrated newspaper established in 1869 by the social reformer William Luson Thomas, in an effort to discourage crime and poverty. First published on 4 December 1869, it developed into a sucessful publication and had subscribers all over the British Empire and North America.SignificanceThis engraving illustrates the experiences of thousands of passengers who migrated between Australia and America in the 19th century.