Beverly N.J. 1880s

Thomas Moran created this watercolor painting, Beverly N.J., during an era defined by exploration and expansion in the United States. Moran, an English-born artist, became celebrated for his landscapes of the American West, playing a key role in shaping the visual narratives of the nation’s natural wonders. This particular painting offers a more intimate view of American life, set against the backdrop of Beverly, New Jersey. The artwork features figures on a small boat, gently navigating the quiet waters. The scene suggests a simple, perhaps idealized, vision of community and belonging. How might such scenes reflect and shape notions of American identity in the late 19th century? Despite its tranquil appearance, the painting exists within the historical context of social stratification and the erasure of indigenous presence. While appearing to celebrate American pastoral life, it also invites us to consider whose stories are prioritized and whose are omitted.