The Yacht America

Charles S. Raleigh, The Yacht America, 1877, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Eugene O'Dunne, 1973.150
Copied Charles S. Raleigh, The Yacht America, 1877, oil on canvas, 2740 in. (68.6101.6 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Eugene O’Dunne, 1973.150
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Artwork Details

Title
The Yacht America
Date
1877
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
2740 in. (68.6101.6 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Eugene O’Dunne
Mediums
Mediums Description
oil on canvas
Classifications
Keywords
  • Waterscape — sea
  • Architecture — boat — America
  • Architecture — boat — yacht
Object Number
1973.150

Artwork Description

The original yacht America was built in 1851 to compete in the Hundred Guinea Cup, the only American entry against fourteen British vessels. When the race was over, Queen Victoria asked, “Who is in first place?” and was told that America had won. When she asked, “Then who is in second?” the American boat had such a strong lead that the reply was: “Madam, there is no second.” After this, the race became known as the America’s Cup.