PBA Galleries

Lithographed map, hand-colored. 87x151 cm (34¼x59½") plus decorative border, backed with linen & sectioned for folding into period cloth slipcase.

Scarce map of the whole United States following the Civil War, with eight vignette scenes around or within the decorative floral border, and a large inset map at lower left, "United States of America Showing Isothermal Lines and Zones of Equal Average Temperature." The map shows the nearly-evolved boundaries of western states and territories, with the major unfinished delineation being Dakota and Wyoming attached as one; the proposed and nearly completed rail lines across the plains are shown, as are explorers' routes, recent forts, and much comment about the country. The Gold Region of Colorado is prominently shown. Warren Heckrotte notes that "This map appears to be rare."

Provenance: Sotheby's, 4/14/89

References: Ristow, Maps & Mapmakers, Chapter on Colton, ( Rep ).