Linnell began the picture on 19 June 1871 and worked on it for a further two days in June and five days in July. He spent further time on the picture in August and September and when the dealer Edward Fox White visited him on 20 October, he recorded in his Journal "...Mr F White slept at Lakers and stayed all day Sunday. Approved greatly of the large Sun Set Ford".

The painting was finished by December and when Fox White saw it on Sunday 17, he offered Linnell 1400 gns. for it as well as commissioning a smaller replica for #700.

The painting was exhibited at the Royal Academy in April 1872 and Linnell's journal for March 12 records "....sent large picture of 'The Ford' to Mr White with letter for R.A.Ex". When Linnell visited the exhibition on varnishing day he found that the picture was well hung on the line. Writing to Linnell in April, Fox White said "....People have been teasing me about your Academy picture which I have said is the finest picture you have ever painted. They say it is not so good as your works of an earlier date - and they instance Gillott's pictures. I say, if less firmly and precisely handled, your present works are better in colour, display more knowledge and are more impressive and suggestive".

We are most grateful to David Linnell for his assistance in preparing this catalogue entry.