Catalog Archive
Auction 193, Lot 295

"A Map of the City of Philadelphia Showing the Location of the Volunteer Fire Companies with Pictures of Some of Their Engines and Equipment...",

Subject: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Period: 1938 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Printed Color

Size:
29.9 x 21.4 inches
75.9 x 54.4 cm
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This elaborate map of Philadelphia served as a historical tribute to the city's first volunteer fire departments. It was drawn by Jacob Riegel and published by The Insurance Company of North America (INA). Founded in 1792, the INA is the oldest insurance company in the United States. At center is a reproduced version of A.P. Folie's plan of Philadelphia, which was issued only two years after the founding of the INA at a time when the city served as the Nation's capital. Added to the map are the locations of 36 "Engine & Hose Houses" and 33 important buildings with a key naming these locations at left. Flanking the map are vignettes of fire fighting scenes, with various uniforms and fire engines shown at top and bottom. The composition is completed by a decorative title cartouche and border.

References:

Condition: A

A colorful example with some minor creasing. There are a few narrow dampstains along the top sheet edge and some minor edge tears along the bottom sheet edge.

Estimate: $275 - $350

Sold for: $125

Closed on 6/21/2023

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