Crossing the Bay

Art Historical Context

"Crossing the Bay" (1872) is a compelling print by an unidentified artist, preserved the Smithsonian American Art Museum collection from the National Portrait Gallery. waterscape depicts a group of named Black men—Henry Boice, Isaac White John Boice Grey, William Thomas Cope—labeled as enslaved persons, rowing a boat with oars across a bay Subtle details like a nearby ship and a book add layers of narrative, evoking a moment of labor, journey, or quiet determination on the water. Created just seven years after the Civil War's end and emancipation, the artwork carries profound historical weight. Prints like this were vital in the 19th century for sharing stories and portraits affordably, preserving the identities and experiences of enslaved individuals often erased from official records. It humanizes these men amid America's turbulent transition from slavery, highlighting their roles in maritime life—perhaps as oarsmen or ferry operators in coastal regions. As a portrait-infused scene, the print's simplicity underscores its emotional power, inviting viewers to ponder untold stories of resilience and survival. A rare visual record, it reminds us of the enduring legacy of those who navigated both literal and metaphorical waters toward freedom.