Elisha Taylor Baker

Private Collection, Staten Island
Private Collection, New York (acquired from the above)

Generally in good condition. Under ultraviolet light: an old green varnish, no apparent inpainting.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The circular redbrick Castle Clinton began its life in 1808 as the Southwest Battery, built on the rocks off the tip of Manhattan before the War of 1812.  Although never used, the finished fort featured 28 cannons and served as the headquarters for General Joseph Bloomfield during his tenure as head of the fortifications in New York City and the surrounding harbor.  In 1817 the battery was named Castle Clinton in honor of Dewitt Clinton, the city’s mayor and later the Governor of New York.  From 1823 until 1855, the structure served as an entertainment center in which operas and plays were performed regularly.  In 1855 Castle Clinton became an immigration depot, operating as such until 1890, two years before the opening of Ellis Island.  Over 8 million people entered the United States through Castle Clinton, the majority of all immigrants entering the country at this time.