Steamship Montserrat

This painting was a gift from the Compañia Trasatlántica Española to Captain Deschamps on the occasion of his “Golden wedding anniversary” with the sea. The steamship Montserrat became famous for having evaded the US blockade around Cuba. The Montserrat sailed from Cadiz on 10th April 1898, commanded by Captain Deschamps. When the ship passed Martinique, the captain received news that the country was at war with the United States, but after dodging the blockade, the steamer successfully reached Cienfuegos. On 15th July, the ship left Cadiz once more, carrying provisions and military supplies, and once again succeeded in entering the port of Matanzas, having evaded enemy fire. Later on, the Montserrat was used as a hospital ship.