The Case:
History Detectives goes to the heart of Manhattan to investigate a tiny portrait which may lie at the center of some very big history.
It’s spring, 1789 and 20,000 Philadelphians pack the streets to catch a glimpse of their nation’s leader en route to New York. First in war and first in peace, George Washington has been elected President and as his inaugural procession forges north, America celebrates freedom from British rule. But for the thousands of enslaved African Americans watching the parade, liberty is nowhere in sight. If President Washington won’t pave their way to citizenship, who will?
Dave Cox of Greenville, Ohio, has stumbled across a miniature color painting of a man in profile labeled “G. Washington.” On the back of the portrait is the inscription, “Property of White Matlack, New York, 1790.” Did the artist paint this portrait of Washington from life, and what is its surprising connection to the little-known abolitionist and patriot, White Matlack?
Related Content
Video:
Technique:
Technique:
Technique:
Related Links
Explore
-
Also in Season 7
Shipwreck Cannons
Are these the last remains of a navy schooner that fought in a border dispute with the mighty British Empire?
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Mark Twain's Watch
Was this watch a gift from noted author American author Mark Twain?
-
Also in Revolution: 1754-1820
Lafayette China
Did the Marquis de Lafayette give this china set to the popular wife of the Patriot Mayor?
-
Related Investigation
Szyk Picture
Could these be early drawings of America's most influential political cartoonist?
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Lafitte's Spyglass
Did this spyglass really belong to a fearless cutthroat pirate?
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Great Mexican War Posters
Is this an advertisement for a film made by an eyewitness to the Mexican Revolution?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.