This important early map of Maine is only the second printed map of the state, engraved by Amos Doolittle after Osgood Carleton’s earlier landmark map in 1793. Published as the frontispiece to Judge James Sullivan’s The History of the District of Maine, it presents a detailed view of the district following the American Revolution, with five counties delineated and a legend identifying townships, county towns, and mountains. The map is particularly notable for its treatment of the Canadian border, including the “High Lands” dividing the United States from Quebec in the north and a misidentified St. Croix River serving as the longitude for the eastern boundary with New Brunswick. Boundary disputes between Maine and Canada would continue for another 50 years due to the vague language written in the 1783 Treaty of Paris. Numerous land grants and holdings are identified, including large swaths of “Lottery Land,” the Waldo Patent, and “1,000,000 acres sold Wm. Bingham Esqr.” Additional lettered grants correspond to a key below the map. An inset at bottom right depicts eastern Maine, described as “those parts of the Country most famous for being harassed [sic] by the Indians.” 421 pages. Hardbound in full contemporary leather with gilt title label on the spine.

References: Howes #S-1122; Wheat & Brun #171.

Condition: B

The folding map has moderate foxing and a 1.5" archivally repaired edge tear at top left. Text has some light toning and occasional foxing. Ex-library with an old stamp on the title page. Front cover is nearly detached and the rear cover is loose. Covers are worn along the edges and the spine is heavily rubbed.