"Washington. Dorchester Heights, March 17, 1776.

T. Kelly (1795-1841), engraver, American, from a copy by M.A. Swett (ca. 1804-1838),

lithographer, American, after Gilbert Stuart (1755-1828), Washington at Dorchester Heights, 1806; published in New York

Etching, ca. 1836

The battle of Dorchester Heights was General Washington's first victory in the Revolutionary War. This image captures the moment of success, and alludes to new challenges ahead. Washington stands between the British ships fleeing Boston harbor and his windswept horse, whose energy urges him on to the next encounter.

Gift of Mrs. C.W. Muckle, 1946

Item#: M-1621/5".

"The Battle of Dorchester Heights resulted in two significant "firsts" for George Washington: his first campaign against British forces and his first victory in the American Revolutionary War. Seeking to relieve Boston from an eleven-month British blockade, Washington marched his men and 59 cannons to the top of Dorchester Heights on the night of March 4, 1776. In so doing, he literally took the high ground and outmaneuvered the British. This print, based on an 1806 painting by Gilbert Stuart, captures the moment of Washington's success."