Colton, G.W. & C.B. “Delaware and Maryland”

G.W. & C.B. Colton. “Delaware and Maryland.” 

New York: J.H. Colton, 1865.  11 ¼ x 14 (neat lines) plus full margins and borders.  Lithograph.  Full original hand color.  Minor mat burn in margins.  Paper slightly time toned.  Else, good condition.  With inset of “District of Columbia.”

In the mid-nineteenth century, the center of map publishing in America moved from Philadelphia to New York.  The Colton publishing firm played a large role in this shift.  This map of Maryland and Delaware, with its fine detail, is a strong example of their successful work.  The map presents the counties with contrasting pastel shades, and includes depictions of towns, roads, railroads, rivers, and some other topography.  Each feature is labeled neatly, and the information given extends to just beyond the borders of the state.  A inset plan of the District of Columbia in the lower left gives much information on the ten mile square area that includes Alexandria, planned railroads, and the C&O Canal.  This is an attractive map as well as an interesting historical document.