ARTIST: Fred Cozzens
PUBLISHER: Published by American Publishing Co., Hartford, Conn.
MEDIUM: Chromolithograph,
DATE: 1892.
EDITION SIZE: Image size 7 3/4 x 12 1/4" (19.8 x 31.2 cm).
DESCRIPTION: This chromolithograph, Plate No. 23 from "Old Naval Prints by Fred S. Cozzens," published in 1893, showcases three prominent warships of the late 19th-century U.S. Navy: USS Texas (Battleship), USS Olympia (Cruiser), and USS Minneapolis (Protected Cruiser). These vessels were instrumental in demonstrating American naval strength during an era of modernization and expansion. <br><br> USS Texas (Battleship, 1895–1911) USS Texas was one of the first two battleships commissioned by the U.S. Navy, launched on June 28, 1892, and commissioned on August 15, 1895. Known for her heavy armor and powerful guns, Texas played a notable role during the Spanish-American War, particularly in the blockade of Santiago de Cuba. Her design, however, was considered problematic, with stability issues that plagued her throughout her service. After her involvement in various operations, Texas was decommissioned in 1911 and later served as a target ship before being scuttled in 1912. <br><br> USS Olympia (Cruiser, 1895–1922) USS Olympia was a protected cruiser launched on November 5, 1892, and commissioned on February 5, 1895. She is best known as the flagship of Commodore George Dewey during the Battle of Manila Bay in the Spanish-American War, where she played a pivotal role in the U.S. victory that marked the emergence of the United States as a major naval power. Olympia continued to serve in various capacities, including as a training ship and in World War I. After her decommissioning in 1922, Olympia was preserved as a museum ship and remains on display in Philadelphia. <br><br> USS Minneapolis (Protected Cruiser, 1894–1921) USS Minneapolis was a protected cruiser launched on August 12, 1893, and commissioned on December 13, 1894. Designed for high speed, Minneapolis was intended for use as a scout and commerce raider. She saw limited action during the Spanish-American War, primarily in patrolling and blockading duties. Following the war, Minneapolis served in various roles, including as a training ship. She was decommissioned in 1921 and sold for scrap in 1924.
ADDITIONAL INFO: This piece is in an 18 x 14" mat for handling.
CONDITION: Good condition with original color.
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