"[2 Maps with Report] Reconnoissances in the Dacota Country [and] Sketch of the Blue Water Creek... [with] Explorations in the Dacota Country, in the Year 1855", Warren, Lieut. G. K.

Lieutenant G.K. Warren served as topographic engineer on the "Sioux Expedition" under the command of General William S. Harvey, who was sent to "chastise the Sioux for the killing of Lt. John L. Grattan and his command of twenty-nine men in the summer of 1853." Also providing a geological report but not actually accompanying the expedition was F. V. Hayden, better known to the Indians from an earlier exploration as "Man Who Picks Up Stones Running" for his peculiar habit of gathering rock samples alone in hostile country (they thought he was crazy). Included here are two (of three) maps including the very large reconnaissance map:

A. Reconnoissances in the Dacota Country (56.6 x 36.1"). This large map was printed on two sheets and joined. It covers the region from Omaha north to Fort Ridgley (MN) and west to Fort Laramie (WY). Shows the path of Warren's exploration throughout the region with encampment dates noted. Also depicts previous explorers routes including Long, Fremont, Stansbury and Nicollet. Presents good detail of topography, the river systems, and the location of numerous Indian tribes and reserves.

B. Sketch of the Blue Water Creek Embracing the Field of Action of the Force Under the Command of Bvt. Brig. Genl. W.S. Harney... (5.5 x 8.7"). This small map shows the region near present-day Ash Hollow, the site of one of the first major battles in the Indian Wars. It shows the camp of the Brule band of the Ogallala Sioux, led by Chief Little Thunder, and their flight from the army of 600 soldiers led by Col. William. S. Harney. Detailed movements are shown for the infantry and cavalry.

First edition, octavo, 79 pages plus the 2 folding maps. Disbound text and maps are housed in archival paper covers with handwritten label.

References: Howes #W-118; Wagner-Camp #283; Wheat (TMW) #871.

Condition: B+

The large folding map is remarkably clean and bright with extraneous creasing and a binding trim at left. The small sketch map has some minor toning and foxing along the lower fold. Disbound text is lightly toned.