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1776 Engraving Captioned: “COMMODORE HOPKINS, COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE AMERICAN FLEET.”

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August 22, 1776-Dated Revolutionary War Period, Mezzotint Engraving Captioned, “COMMODORE HOPKINS, COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE AMERICAN FLEET.”, Jon Martin Will Execudit Aug Vind, Published by Thos Hart, London, Framed, Fine or better.

This important 1776 Revolutionary War dated Patriotic theme American Continental Navy figure and Engraving. In 1775, Esek Hopkins was Appointed by the Continental Congress as Commander in Chief of the Continental Navy, making him the First person to hold this position. This Engraving measures 14” x 9.25” (by sight), apparently in its original black wood frame to fully 16.5” x 11.75” with professional archival conservation with special UV Plexiglas added for viewing protection (not viewed out of its frame). This example trimmed to edge of the printed image with its full text below present, a small .5” tear at the extreme top margin just touches the sky, some light soiling and tone yet quite clean with nice contrast. The frame shows wear, specially to the highpoint edges.

This Engraving depicts a three-quarter length Portrait of Commodore Esek Hopkins (1718-1802), showing him in his Continental Navy uniform with one hand upraised and pointing forward, while he looks off to the left; several warships at sail behind him, and a Banner that has the “Liberty Tree” image and text "An Appeal to God" is above his outstretched hand. Above his left elbow as he holds his naval cutlass at the ready to fight, flys another striped Flag with a Snake and the immortal words: “Don’t tread upon me”.

Esek Hopkins was the Commander of the fledgling American Continental Navy, comprised of only eight merchant ships outfitted for war, during the early days of the American Revolution. After several run-ins with Congress over his not following orders, and after a signed Petition of complaint from his officers, Esek Hopkins was suspended in early 1777 and then summarily dismissed in January 1778. "His mediocre record of command, added to his political ineptness, made dismissal inevitable" - ANB.

This historic print is one in a series of portraits of Continental Congress commissioned Officers in the American Revolution. The intent of which was obviously to glorify the Americans in their pursuit of Liberty and Independence and to demonize the British. The British Museum catalogue notes that several of the likenesses were basically imaginary.

PROPERTY FROM THE COLLECTION OF

AMBASSADOR J. WILLIAM MIDDENDORF II


Commodore Esek Hopkins (1718-1802) was a prominent figure in the early days of the United States Navy, particularly during the American Revolutionary War. Hopkins began his career as a merchant captain and shipowner before becoming involved in naval affairs. In 1775, he was Appointed by the Continental Congress as Commander in Chief of the Continental Navy, making him the First person to hold this position

Esek Hopkins was born in Rhode Island in 1718. He came from a prominent family with a history of military service and political involvement in the colony.

As Commander in Chief of the Continental Navy, Hopkins played a crucial role in establishing and expanding the naval forces of the fledgling United States during the American Revolutionary War. He was responsible for organizing and overseeing naval operations against British shipping and securing vital sea lanes for the American cause.

One of Hopkins' most significant achievements was the Capture of the ship “New Providence” in the Bahamas in 1776. This successful expedition provided much-needed supplies and munitions for the Continental Army and Navy.

Hopkins' tenure as Commander in Chief of the Continental Navy was not without its challenges and controversies. He faced criticism for his management of naval operations and accusations of favoritism in promotions and appointments.

In 1778, Hopkins was forced to resign from his position as Commander in Chief of the Continental Navy due to ongoing disputes and disagreements with Congress. He retired from active naval service and spent his later years in Rhode Island, where he died in 1802.

Commodore Esek Hopkins' contributions to the Continental Navy played a significant role in the early stages of the American Revolutionary War and the establishment of the United States Navy. While his tenure as commander in chief was marked by challenges and controversies, his efforts helped to lay the foundation for the future success and expansion of the U.S. Navy.
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Lot Number: 146
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