Catalog Archive
Auction 123, Lot 246

"[Lot of 4] Map of the City of Washington Showing the Variety of Street Pavements… [and] …for the Use of the Engineer Department… [and] …Showing the Location of Sewers… [and] …Showing the System of Water Supply and Distribution…", U.S. Corps of Engineers

Subject: District of Columbia

Period: 1890-91 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Printed Color

Size:
27.5 x 28 inches
69.9 x 71.1 cm
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This set of thematic maps was published to show the large-scale improvements in the infrastructure of the city. They were prepared by Capt. W.T. Rossell of the Army's Corps of Engineers to accompany the annual report of the Commissioners, District of Columbia. Each map carries the title "Map of the City of Washington..." and is drawn on an identical scale, showing the street pattern of Washington in great detail. Each has a specialized focus, with the titles continuing: 1) "Showing the Varieties of Street Pavements"; 2) "for use of the Engineer Department District of Columbia"; 3) "Showing the Location of Sewers"; and 4) Showing the System of Water Supply and Distribution." Each is colored to match its thematic legend. The first map is particularly handsome as it uses seven colors to indicate types of road surface. An important set of four matched maps that provide a remarkable look into the capital's infrastructure in the early 1890's.

References:

Condition: A+

Each is folding, as issued.

Estimate: $150 - $250

Sold for: $425

Closed on 2/20/2008

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