Catalog Archive
Auction 121, Lot 313

"Map of a Part of Washington Territory to accompany the Report of the Surveyor General", U.S. Government

Subject: Washington

Period: 1860-61 (dated)

Publication: Senate Doc. #1, 36th Congress, 2nd Session

Color: Black & White

Size:
28 x 21.5 inches
71.1 x 54.6 cm
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This is an early and uncommon map of Washington Territory that extends south to Oregon and east beyond Walla Walla to about 118°. This very detailed map provides information on the extent and status of surveying. It shows watershed, mountains in hachure, Indian and military reservations, and more. This edition pre-dates the display of gold regions that first appear on the 1862 issue. The Hudson Bay Co's Claim is near Vancouver, Washington. Signed in the plate by James Wilson, Surveyor General at Olympia on Sept. 20th, 1860.

Washington Territory was created in 1853 and despite Indian hostilities (Yakima Wars 1855-56), some surveying progress was achieved west of the Cascades. Construction of several Army forts (shown on the map) and military roads continued periodically, supporting further survey efforts. The outbreak of the Spokane War (1858-89) did hamper surveyors and the map reflects a large part of the territory as unsurveyed.

References:

Condition: B

Sound example that has been pressed and mounted on archival tissue. Paper laid in at binding trim to even up margin. A little toning on some folds, else very good.

Estimate: $140 - $180

Sold for: $85

Closed on 9/26/2007

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