"Atlas to Accompany the Monograph on the Geology of the Comstock Lode and the Washoe District", U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

This large atlas accompanied George Ferdinand Becker's report examining the geological composition and economic potential of this mineral rich region of Nevada. It contains a total of 19 plates, with 17 being double-page and most in color. The atlas features two double-page maps of the entire Washoe District. The first map shows the gold and silver operations in the vicinity of Virginia City. Identifies scores of mining claims, and locates the Sutro Tunnel and several mills including Sherman, French's, Humphreys, Nevada and many more. The second map shows the geology of the region on the same base map and identifies 14 different geological types through both color and texture. The remaining plates include 9 mine maps, 5 cross-sections, and 3 vertical longitudinal projections. Hardbound in brown cloth with gilt stamped title on the front cover. Elephant folio.

This area of Nevada (Virginia City) first drew the interest of gold prospectors in the 1850's. They struggled with the heavy, gooey mud that clung to picks and shovels. When assayed this troublesome muck proved to contain silver ore worth over $2,000 a ton - in 1859 dollars - not counting the gold content! This rich lode caught the attention of President Lincoln who realized its mineral wealth could help keep the Union solvent during the Civil War. In 1864 he made Nevada a state, bypassing the sticky problem that it did not contain enough people to be constitutionally eligible for statehood.

References:

Condition: B+

The maps are good to near fine, with the majority being very good. There is a light dampstain that runs along the lower edge of the plates, mostly in the margin, and is more noticeable from plate 6 through 10. Plate 20 and 21 have some minor foxing and staining, and a portion of the right margin of plate 13 has been trimmed away. Ex-library. Binding has some shelf wear and dampstaining at bottom.