Mitchell, S. Augustus “A New Map of Maryland and Delaware with their Canals, Roads & Distances."

S. Augustus Mitchell. “A New Map of Maryland and Delaware with their Canals, Roads & Distances.” 

Philadelphia: Thomas, Cowperthwait & Co., 1850.  11 1/2 x 14 5/8.  Lithographic transfer from engraved plate.  Full original hand color.  Full margins.  Very good condition. 

A strong, beautifully crafted map of Maryland and Delaware from the mid-nineteenth century, published by Thomas, Cowperthwait & Co..  This firm took over the publication of S. Augustus Mitchell’s important Universal Atlas in 1850, and they continued to produce up-dated maps that were amongst the best issued in the period.  This map shows Maryland and Delaware at an interesting period in its history.  The map is filled with myriad topographical details, including rivers, towns, mountains, and political borders.  The Thomas, Cowperthwait & Co. maps are especially known for their depiction of the transportation routes of the states, and this map is no exception.  The transportation infrastructure was extremely important at this period of increased travel and goods shipping in the mid-Atlantic region.  This information is clearly depicted, including rail lines, canals, and roads.  A table at the top lists the steamboat routes from Baltimore to Norfolk, Philadelphia and Washington.  A fascinating Maryland and Delaware document from mid-century.