From Charles M. Russell to Herbert Johnson
From Charles M. Russell to Herbert Johnson
George Washington peace medal with "Spinning" scene / American
Essay/Description
The image includes a woman spinning yarn with a loom for weaving behind her. To the side, a child rocks a baby in the cradle.
Curatorial Remarks
The Washington Seasons medals depict scenes of agricultural life that the Americans wanted the Indians to adopt. Ordered by James McHenry, Secretary of War in 1797, the medals were struck in England in 1798. These medals were designed by John Trumbull, a well-respected early American artist and Colonel in the Revolutionary War.
Although the reverse legend on the medals is SECOND PRESIDENCY OF GEO. WASHINGTON MDCCXCVI, these medals were not distributed until after President Washington died. Lewis & Clark may have taken some of them on their cross country travels.
Although the reverse legend on the medals is SECOND PRESIDENCY OF GEO. WASHINGTON MDCCXCVI, these medals were not distributed until after President Washington died. Lewis & Clark may have taken some of them on their cross country travels.