Alligator Transport

During the early 19th century, “Clippers” were considered the most time and cost efficient option for transporting cargo. These fast sailing ships were initially used for the growing tea trade between New York and China; by mid-century they gained popularity among New Yorkers heading to San Francisco hoping to cash in on the California gold rush. Companies advertised their services using cards known as “Sailing Cards.” As illustrated below, shipping merchants sought to promote their ships as the fastest in the business, boasting 111- or 115-day journeys to San Francisco. To compete in a crowded marketplace, businesses took to using stylized fonts to market their services to potential customers. They also displayed the operating merchant’s names – sometimes notable figures in the industry, including William T. Coleman and George D. Sutton.
39.371.2

The Celebrated A 1 Extreme Clipper Ship David Crockett. ca. 1858. Museum of the City of New York. 39.371.2

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