"Battle of Lexington, 19th April, 1775" CC0 digital variations by Ken Ken Harley

 

Betsch, M.

Description

In the nineteenth century, volunteer fire companies often commissioned paintings to decorate their hand-pumped fire engines for parades, competitions, and community events. Sometimes framed with elaborate carvings, they adorned the tall air chamber located at the middle or rear of a pumper. The paintings would often feature patriotic, heroic, or allegorical images to associate the volunteer companies with these lofty ideals.

This engine panel painting came from the Lexington Fire Engine Company No. 7 of New York City. The volunteer company was active from December 26, 1849 until September 18, 1865. The painting was signed by artist M. Betsch, and was completed around 1849. The painting is the artist’s interpretation of the skirmish between the American militia and British troops on April 19, 1775 on the Lexington Green. This military engagement is characterized as the first battle of the Revolutionary War. The Lexington Fire Company used this painting to link their company to the patriotic deeds of their predecessors. This painting and its companion piece (object 2005.0233.0301) would have adorned the sides of the company’s engine.

Location

Currently not on view

Credit Line

Gift of CIGNA Museum and Art Collection

ca 1849

ID Number

2005.0233.0302

accession number

2005.0233

catalog number

2005.0233.0302

Object Name

painting, engine panel

Physical Description

composite wood (overall material)

oil paint (image material)

Measurements

overall: 30 in x 17 1/2 in; 76.2 cm x 44.45 cm

See more items in

Cultural and Community Life: Fire Fighting and Law Enforcement

Work

Cultures & Communities

Art

Engine Panel Paintings

Firefighting Collection

National Museum of American History

subject

Fire Fighting

Record ID

nmah_1341000

Metadata Usage (text)

CC0