1855 "The United States of America" by J. H. Colton

This is an attractive 19th century map of the United States. Published in 1855 by Joseph H. Colton in New York, this map details the area from the southern border of Canada, labeled here as “British Possessions,” to the northern border of Mexico and the Bahama Islands, with its main focus on the United States. The map is a wonderful snapshot of the United States during a time of significant growth, exploration, and development.

This map was published in 1855; after the Mexican-American War and during the height of the California Gold Rush. As such, there is significant detail in the early western territorial boundaries, making this map very interesting. In the west, Washington and Oregon Territories extend to a huge Nebraska Territory, meeting at the Continental Divide. Nebraska Territory in turn extends to the Missouri River where it borders a large Minnesota Territory. Utah Territory spans from California east to join Nebraska and “Kanzas” along the Rocky Mountains and Continental Divide. The very large New Mexico Territory comprises all of today's Arizona and part of Colorado. 

The map also details the exploration routes of many expeditions, including those of Marcy, Kearny, Fremont, and more. It locates the Santa Fe Trail and the Oregon Trail and is filled with watershed information, forts, and Indian lands. The map is decorated with Colton’s signature strapwork border and hand-colored outlines to state and territorial borders in a light red watercolor. 

The Colton family was a well known family firm of mapmakers during the majority of the 19th century. The company led the market in the American map trade for the majority of the century. Joseph Hutchins Colton (1800-1893) was the company founder, establishing the publishing business by 1831. Joseph H. Colton's steel engraved maps were often commended for their attention to detail, elaborate borders and decorative details.

CONDITION:

Good condition overall. There are a few spots of soiling, light toning along the centerfold, and short archivally repaired centerfold separations confined to the margins. Small edge chips and light toning along the sheet edges.

The map has been archivally stabilized and artfully framed in a custom wooden frame with acid-free mats and UV glass. 

Framed Dimensions: 22"H x 32"W x 3/4"D. 

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.