PBA Galleries

32 pp. With 5 folding lithographed maps. (8vo) removed from larger volume with remains of stitching on spine. First Edition.

Significant and scarce report by the Commissioner appointed to ascertain the correct boundary between the United States and Mexico following the Mexican-American War and the acquisition by the U.S. of the American Southwest. Bartlett ended up being more generous to the Mexicans than was intended in Washington, and he allowed the boundary to be set forty-two miles north of El Paso. Because of Bartlett's error, the United States in 1853 had to negotiate the Gadsden Purchase, which set the boundary of New Mexico at 31°47' north latitude. The Gadsden Purchase, which transferred mainly desert lands to the United States, was viewed as essential for establishing a southern route for the transcontinental railroad. The five maps present are of portions of the border area. Howes B203.