Despatch to Dunedin and Lyttelton, the beautiful A1 clipper barque MICHELLE SELCHAU

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

Date1880

Object number00008389

NameClipper card

MediumPaper

DimensionsOverall: 164 x 99 mm

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionThis clipper card advertises the transportation of cargo on board the clipper ship MICHELLE SELCHAU, travelling from Boston to Dunedin and Lyttelton in 1880. 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 MICHELLE SELCHAU was an A1 class clipper ship with a capacity of 471 tons. It travelled between America and Australia carrying freight and passengers. In 1880 it was under the command of Master Larsen.SignificanceClipper ship cards rarely survive as they were usually discarded when the ships departure date passed. This example is representative of the prominent shipping line Henry W Peabody & Co, which was active on the Australian trade route.