Early British Version of the Thackara & Vallance DC Map

"Plan of the City of Washington", Good, J.

This rare map of Washington DC is based on the small Thackara & Vallance plan produced in March 1792 for 'The Universal Asylum And Columbian Magazine', which is considered the first printed plan of Washington. This British version of the map is chronologically seventh, published a mere 10 months later. The map itself shows a few major buildings including the Capitol and the Presidents House, while others are simply outlined. The proposed landscape design for the Mall is shown with considerably more detail. The rudimentary eagle and shield surrounding the title is the only apparent difference to the Thackara & Vallance map.

The map is bound into The Literary Magazine and British Review published in January 1793. This monthly periodical includes a 3-page section discussing the Washington Plan immediately following the map (pp. 49-51). Published by J. Good, Bond Street. 479 pp., hardbound, 8vo, contemporary quarter calf over marbled boards.

References: Jolly LITB-4; Phillips (M) p. 1004

Condition: B+

The map has some light offsetting and a tiny binding tear away from the image. Text has some light scattered foxing and a small damp stain in the first few pages along with a few ink notations. Covers are worn and bumped and the hinges are starting.