"Shall This Continue? Join the Navy" Vintage Navy Recruitment Poster, circa 1916

This vintage recruitment poster from World War I was issued to encourage onlookers to join the U.S. Navy. The poster was issued by the Morgan Litho. Co. out of Cleveland in 1916. The poster design features a large  allegorical figure of a women atop the waves. Beneath her is a horrible ship wreck, with text above proclaiming "Shall this continue?" The poster was designed to call Americans to action to stop the tremendous losses of war. At the right is the text reading "Join the Navy."

Posters such as this one were used to inspire onlookers to join the war effort or to provide monetary support. These recruitment posters often were designed to play on the emotions of viewers. In this case, the design plays up the tragedy of war in order to encourage action among citizens.

At the left of the composition is text reading "Navy League, Pittsburgh." The Navy League is a national association with roughly 50,000 members that supports the U.S. Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine. The organization was founded in 1902 at the suggestion of Theodore Roosevelt and describes itself as “a civilian organization dedicated to the education of our citizens, including our elected officials, and the support of the men and women of the sea services and their families.”

CONDITION:

Overall very good condition with vibrant coloring. Poster has very little wear, save some small creases as to be expected. Very good condition considering age and use. Framed according to the highest conservation standards in a custom black and gold frame.

Framed dimensions: 46" H x 32" W x 1 1/2" D.