Collection Highlights
Terms of Surrender
Date:
April 9, 1865
Object Number:
MSS.BV.Grant
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Museum Collections
Luce Center
Wooden leg of Gouverneur Morris
Object Number:
1954.148
Date:
ca. 1780
Medium:
Oak, leather, metal
Dimensions:
Overall: 42 1/2 x 14 1/2 in. ( 108 x 36.8 cm )
Description:
Turned and carved oak prosthetic leg made in two sections; lower section tapers downward and has knob at base; upper section attached with metal ring and screws and forms U-shape with one side twice as long as the other; center of U lined with green leather; short side has slots for tie to secure leg; mounted on circular wooden base with metal rods.
Gallery Label:
This artifical limb was used by Founding Father Gouverneur Morris (1752-1816), who lost his left leg in a carriage accident at the age of twenty-eight. The gallant statesman was notorious for his many affairs, and rumors persisted that his injury resulted from jumping out a window to escape a jealous husband.
Credit Line:
Gift of Mrs. Frederick Menzies
Due to ongoing research, information about this object is subject to change.
