Watercolor of Denny (Neptune) Socabasin
Art
Photograph of a watercolor of Denny (Neptune) Socabasin, painted by Lt. Villiers in Eastport Maine, during the British occupation of the city, September 18, 1817. Denny was the daughter of Chief Francis Joseph Neptune, Governor of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, and is dressed in traditional clothing, with some large silver ornaments, perhaps around the time of her marriage to Deacon Socabasin. On the table are a pitcher and plate, and leaning against the table leg is a small papoose, dressed in a same red costume. Through the window are visible a civilian and recoated British solder crossing the parade ground at Fort Sullivan, in Eastport, Maine.
This watercolor has the following inscription on the reverse: “Denn--daughter of Francis Joseph (Neptune), Governor of the Passamaquoddy, Eastport September 18, 1817.” She wears traditional costume, including a peaked hat and some trade silver broaches typical of the Passamaquoddy tribe. The history of the British occupation is recorded by William Henry Kilby, of Eastport and Dennysville, Maine in "Eastport and Passamaquoddy," published by Oliver Shead and Company in 1888.
Photos for Map
Historical Note
The original watercolor is currently housed at the Maine State Museum, and is gift of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
