Used by Gouverneur Morris (American, 1752 – 1816)

Wooden leg of Gouverneur Morris (1752–1816)

ca. 1780

Place madePhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, North America

Oak, leather, metal

Overall: 42 1/2 x 14 1/2 in. ( 108 x 36.8 cm )

Gift of Mrs. Frederick Menzies

1954.148

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.

DescriptionTurned 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.

ClassificationsHISTORIC RELICS

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