Catalog Archive
Auction 139, Lot 196

"Map Showing Land Grant of the Northern Pacific Railroad Co. in Western Washington and Northern Oregon…", Matthews-Northrup Co

Subject: Northwestern United States

Period: 1890 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
34.5 x 32 inches
87.6 x 81.3 cm
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This is a scarce land promotion broadside, published by the Northern Pacific Railroad. On one side is the large "Map Showing Land Grant of the Northern Pacific Railroad Co. in Western Washington and Northern Oregon. Corrected up to April 1, 1890." The map occupies the entire side and features very fine detail throughout the region. It extends from the Pacific Ocean eastward to Ellensburg and beyond to Port Eaton. The city of Portland is in the south and the map continues north up to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Port Townsend, Port Angeles, Seattle, Astoria, and more are located. The map describes the terms of sale including the maximum number of acres one person may purchase, the terms (7% interest) and price ($2.60 - $6 per acre). The forty and fifty mile limit lines for the railroad are shown. The legend identifies railroad lands available and those already sold - no doubt to create a sense of urgency.

The other side is filled with marketing and promotional information and images. A second map "Map of Washington, Northern Idaho & Oregon" (8.2" x 11") has bird's-eye views of Puyallup, Ellensburg, Portland, Seattle, and North Yakima. Self-folds into two-color covers with bird's-eye views of the Hotel Tacoma with Mt. Rainer figuring prominently in the background, and another showing Tacoma from the terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad yard at Puget Sound. A scarce and ephemeral land promotion railroad broadside.

References: Rumsey #5392.

Condition: B

There are a few small holes along the folds and some light offsetting, else very good.

Estimate: $200 - $250

Sold for: $150

Closed on 2/15/2012

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