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Year: 1848.Type: Exploration Gold Rush Map.Original/Reproduction: Original Antique Map.Cartographer/Publisher: Henry I. Simpson / Joyce & Co. (New York).Dimensions: Sheet measures approx. 11-1/4" x 12-3/4."Region: California, Western United States, Mexico.
Highly desirable, exceptionally rare piece of American West history: The original 1848 "Map of California and the routes to reach it." This landmark map was published at the dawn of the California Gold Rush to accompany Henry I. Simpson’s famous guidebook, "The Emigrant's Guide to the Gold Mines." Printed immediately following James Marshall’s January 1848 discovery at Sutter's Mill, this specific map captures the exact moment the historic migration began, charting the overland and maritime trails for the first wave of Forty-Niners.
Key Cartographic Features:
The Gold Region: Clearly identifies and highlights the newly discovered "Gold Region" along the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers.
Indigenous & Great Basin Context: Features fascinating early nomenclature, accurately labeling the "Paiuches Desert" and the territory of the "Paiuches Indians" south of the Great Salt Lake.
Central Focal Point: Anchored around Mexico and Chihuahua, reflecting the reliance on established trails and military roads of the Mexican-American War era.
Insets: The lower-left quadrant contains highly detailed smaller "inset" maps of North America and South America, outlining the grueling routes via Cape Horn and Panama.
This map is in overall Very Good condition for a delicate paper item of this era. Paper & Margins: Measures exactly 11-1/4 x 12-3/4 inches with original margins intact. The paper remains bright with strong impression lines. Aging: Displays some light, expected historic foxing that does not compromise readability or visual appeal. Stabilization: The reverse side has been stabilized along the vulnerable fold lines with archival document tape to prevent splitting and preserve its structural integrity. It presents beautifully and is fully ready for professional framing. Please review the high-resolution photographs carefully for exact condition details.
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