"The Soash Special…", Poole Bros.

This is a land promotional map by the W.P. Soash Land Company created in advertising partnership with the Iron Mountain Route. In the early 20th century the development and settlement of Texas was greatly influenced by land developers, such as William Pulver Soash's company, who were aided by the break up of large area ranches, the continuing expansion of the region's railroads and their marketing efforts. The Soash Land Company lists headquarters at Waterloo, Iowa with branch offices in Des Moines, Minneapolis, Kansas City, Madison (WI), Chicago, Big Springs and Soash Texas. This map uses orange overprinting to locate and suggest to the potential immigrant the agricultural potential including Sugar Cane, Alfalfa, Corn, Cotton, Sheep & Cattle, a large area labeled Winter Vegetable Garden, Tobacco, Fruits, etc. Also shows Oil Fields and a mining district for silver and lead. Notations provide the elevation, rainfall and mean temperatures across Texas. The rail lines of the International & Great Northern, Texas & Pacific, and several others are well delineated with all stations named. The title continues "Leaves Union Station at Kansas city the First and Third Wednesdays of each Month. Come with us to the Big Springs Country." With the logo for the I.&G. N., T. & P. and Iron Mountain railroads. Blank verso. Drawn and printed by the Poole Bros., Chicago. Today Soash exists as a ghost town. A rare issue.

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Condition: C+

A couple of short internal and fold tears, otherwise a bright and near fine example. Folding as issued.