"Plan of the Investment of York & Gloucester, by the Allied Armies: in Septr. & Octr. 1781", Ramsay, David

This rare Revolutionary War battle map was published in David Ramsay's The History of the Revolution of South-Carolina… The map focuses on the southern bank of the York River during the 1781 Siege of Yorktown, the last major land battle of the war. It tracks troop movements and artillery in stunning detail. "The Field where the British laid down their Arms" is located, and the quarters of several officers are identified, including those of Washington, La Fayette, Rochambeau, and Clinton. In the York River, numerous ships are depicted in battle, with some sinking in defeat. A key notes the ships' precise positions. Gloucester Point is shown on the opposite shore. The map also names Moore House, where the opposing sides met to draft the Articles of Capitulation surrendering York and Gloucester to the victorious Continental Army. A scroll-like title cartouche appears at top right. Engraved by Charleston citizen Abernethie.

Ramsay was a resident of Charleston and known for his accurate historical reporting. He is also renowned as the author of "the most objective and sophisticated contemporary account of the Revolution" in his History of the American Revolution. His rare two-volume history of South Carolina (the source of this map) is notable for being the first work to receive a copyright in the United States. It was printed by Isaac Collins in Trenton, New Jersey.

References: Howes #R-36; Nebenzahl (Biblio) #196; Wheat & Brun #545.

Condition: B

Issued folding with light toning and soiling, some small stains, and short edge tears that just pass the neatline at top and have been closed on verso with archival tape.