Thomas Ruckle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Ruckle
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Born | 1776 ![]() Ireland ![]() |
Died | 1853 ![]() |
Occupation | Painter ![]() |
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Thomas Ruckle (1776–1853) was an artist who lived in Baltimore, Maryland, a long time ago. He was known for painting houses and signs. He also painted amazing pictures of important historical events.
His most famous paintings are The Battle of North Point and The Defense of Baltimore. Thomas Ruckle was also a soldier. He fought in the War of 1812 as a corporal. He was part of the 5th Maryland Regiment of the Maryland Militia.
Contents
Early Life and Art Skills
Thomas Ruckle was born in Ireland. Later, he moved to Baltimore, Maryland. There, he worked as a painter, decorating houses and making signs for businesses.
It's believed that Thomas Ruckle did not have much formal training as an artist. He likely learned to paint by practicing on his own.
Thomas Ruckle and the War of 1812
Thomas Ruckle was a soldier in the Maryland Militia. He fought during the War of 1812. He took part in a very important battle called the Battle of North Point.
In this battle, the Maryland Militia, led by General John Stricker, bravely held back the British army. This gave the city of Baltimore enough time to prepare its defenses. Because of their efforts, Baltimore was successfully protected.
Ruckle served as a Corporal in a group called the Washington Blues. This group was part of the 5th Maryland Regiment.
Famous Paintings of the War
After the war, Ruckle painted two famous pictures. These were The Battle of North Point and The Defense of Baltimore. He painted them soon after the events happened.
Today, these paintings are kept at the Maryland Historical Society. One of his paintings was even shown in a special art exhibit. It was part of an American battle painting show at the Museum of Modern Art in 1944.
Thomas Ruckle's Family
Thomas Ruckle had a son named Thomas Coke Ruckle (1811–1891). His son also became a painter. Unlike his father, Thomas Coke Ruckle received formal art training.
He studied fine art at the Royal Academy in London. This was from 1839 to 1841. When he returned to Maryland, he became a successful portrait painter. He had his own art studio in Baltimore.
Thomas Coke Ruckle also worked as an illustrator. He created drawings of scenes from the American West. He also made many drawings for a book. The book was called Early History of Methodism in Maryland. It was published in 1866.