One-of-a-Kind Manuscript Railroad Atlas

"[Manuscript Railroad Atlas] Maps of Real Estate & Right of Way. Penna. R.R. Extension to the P. & S.R.R.", Railroad Companies, (Various)

This fascinating manuscript atlas is a unique and important working document showing the Pennsylvania Railroad's acquisition of land in Pittsburgh. There are 42 total sheets, beginning in south Pittsburgh and extending through Pittsburgh to Washington and Grant Street. Each of the maps is an account of deed purchases and includes the name of the grantor, the size and location of the parcel, and the deed date. The maps are incredibly detailed showing property owners, individual lots and building types. The maps are enhanced with hand coloring. Folio, hardbound in quarter leather with tips over brown cloth boards.

The Pennsylvania Railroad was founded in 1846 and became one of the largest railroad companies in the world, having acquired or merged with over 800 other railroads. At one point in time it was the largest publicly traded corporation in the world.

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Condition: B+

The maps are very good to near fine with minor to light soiling from use and a few occasional extraneous pencil notations. A few of the sheets at the back of the atlas are chipped in the lower right corner, away from map images. Contents are tight. Covers are worn and chipped with a few chalk notations, and the front cover has separated.