Catalog Archive
Auction 134, Lot 143

"Map of the United States Exhibiting the Several Collection Districts", Burr, David H.

Subject: United States

Period: 1854 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Printed Color

Size:
48.6 x 31 inches
123.4 x 78.7 cm
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This huge map was issued just after the Gadsden Purchase and prior to the monumental undertaking of the Pacific Railroad Survey. It shows the United States with large western territories. New Mexico and Utah extend to California, while the continental divide marks the borders for Kansas, Nebraska, Washington and Oregon. Minnesota extends to the Missouri River and Indian Territory is defined but not named. Red overprinted lines indicate the customs collection district boundaries and yellow ones distinguish the states and territories. Lithographed by Ackerman in New York, printed on two joined sheets of thick banknote paper, as issued.

The map was drawn by David H. Burr, a tremendously important figure in the mapping of the United States. He began his career surveying in New York in 1829. He then went on to serve as topographer of the United States Post Office, Geographer for the House of Representatives, surveyor to the states of Florida and Louisiana, Geographer to the U.S. Senate and finally as Surveyor General of Utah Territory during the legal and jurisdictional disputes between Mormon leaders and the U.S. government. On this map he is credited as Draftsman U.S. Senate.

References:

Condition: B+

Folding as issued. Near perfect except for a torn and missing piece at the binding side with loss of about two inches of the neatline. Still overall very good.

Estimate: $250 - $300

Sold for: $190

Closed on 12/1/2010

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