Catalog Archive
Auction 183, Lot 38

"Puzzle Map of the United States", Milton Bradley Co.

Subject: Cartographic Miscellany, United States Puzzle

Period: 1880 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20.1 x 13.4 inches
51.1 x 34 cm
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This uncommon puzzle map, published by Milton Bradley of Springfield Mass., is accompanied by its original chromolithograph decorated box. The map is basic and displays the states and territories, major rivers, and a few cities in each state or territory. While most boundaries reflect current configurations, Dakota territory is still present and Yellowstone National Park is delineated. The map is printed on thin stock and cut into 55 equal sized rectangles.

Milton Bradley established his color lithography shop in 1860 and soon thereafter started making board games. During the Civil War he produced small games that soldiers could easily pack in their knapsacks – considered the first American travel games. By the 1870s the company was producing dozens of different types of games and in 1880 began making jigsaw puzzles. Milton Bradley was an early advocate of the idea of kindergarten and many of the company’s products were educational in nature. This is a great example of his early work.

References:

Condition: B+

Condition code is for the puzzle, which is lightly soiled and toned. The cardboard box is chipped and worn.

Estimate: $200 - $230

Unsold

Closed on 6/9/2021

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