Item number: WES002
Genuine Antique Hand-Colored Map
1849
Maker: Mitchell.
Antique hand-colored map, from S. Augustus Mitchell's "A New Universal Atlas, Containing Maps of the Various Empires, Kingdoms, States and Republics of the World, With a Special Map of Each of the United States, Plans of Cities, etc.", 1849. This map was published the year before California became a state. This map was published during the height of the Gold Rush (1848-1855). In 1848, only one week before the official American annexation of the area, gold was discovered in California. Soon afterward, a massive influx of immigration into the area resulted, as prospectors and miners arrived by the thousands. This accelerated the road to statehood for California. On September 9, 1850, as part of the Compromise of 1850, California was granted statehood as a free state. The Gold Region is highlighted in yellow. Also includes Oregon Territory, Missouri Territory to the Canadian Border, and a funny shaped New Mexico Territory. Various trails west are highlighted in red. Includes forts, towns, Native American Indians, and topography. Original color. Very good overall antique condition, with mild toning, some minor spots and soiling. Measures approx. 16 x 12.5 inches to the neatline.
Genuine Antique Map from 1849
Item Number: WES002