Catalog Archive
Auction 129, Lot 162

"Geological Map of the United States and Part of Canada Compiled by C.H. Hitchcock for the American Institute of Mining Engineers to Illustrate the Schemes of Coloration and Nomenclature Recommended by the International Geological Congress", Hitchcock, Charles Henry

Subject: United States

Period: 1886 (dated)

Publication: American Institute of Mining Engineers International Geological Congress

Color: Printed Color

Size:
27.8 x 17.3 inches
70.6 x 43.9 cm
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This edition of Hitchcock's important map is the first geological map of the entire United States. This claim was made by Hitchcock in the article, "The Geological Map of the United States" in volume XV, of the Transactions of the American Institute of Mining Engineers, 1886-1887, that originally accompanied the map. Hitchcock writes (p. 468): "For the first time in the history of American maps it has been possible to show the distribution of stratigraphical divisions of equal importance in every part of the country." Hitchcock describes the 1884 McGee, U.S. Geological Survey national map as incomplete: "Because of the scarcity of existing and available information, it became necessary to leave the following States and Territories either partially or wholly uncolored: Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington." In the section listing the improvements in his (Hitchcock's) map, he notes: "2. Extension of the colors into the States and Territories of the far West," and he gives the sources for the new information that allowed him to fill in the western states. Please see the previous lot for McGee's map as referenced by Hitchcock.

This large chromolithographic map provides terrific detail of the geological formations of the country. An explanatory key to the colors indicates sixteen geological formations, increased from nine on the first edition of 1873. The carefully drawn map shows good geographical detail as well as remarkable geological information. Lithographed by Julius Bien on fine banknote-style paper. An important and landmark geological map.

References:

Condition: A+

Folding, as issued. Mint, no flaws on banknote style paper.

Estimate: $300 - $400

Sold for: $425

Closed on 9/23/2009

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