After Samuel Lovett Waldo (1783-1861)

This painting depicts General Alexander Macomb (1782–1841) as the field commander at the Battle of Plattsburgh during the War of 1812. After his stunning victory he was lauded with praise and styled "The Hero of Plattsburgh" by some of the American press. He was promoted to Major General for his conduct, receiving both the Thanks of Congress and a Congressional Gold Medal. For additional information on General Macomb see Allan S. Everest, "Alexander Macomb at Plattsburgh, 1814", New York History, Vol. 44, No. 4 (October, 1963), pp. 307-335.

This portrait is a smaller copy of the original by Samuel Lovett Waldo, which hangs in New York City Hall and was commissioned by the city in 1815 to honor the general’s role in the Battle of Plattsburgh in fall 1814.