Mitchell, S. Augustus "A New Map of State of Pennsylvania with its Roads & Distances"

S. Augustus Mitchell (1790-1868).  Plate 13.  “A New Map of State of Pennsylvania with its Roads & Distances.” From A New Universal Atlas… 

Philadelphia: Cowperthwait, Desilver & Butler, 1854.  11 3/4 x 14 1/4.  Lithographic transfer from engraved plate.  Full original hand coloring.  Very good condition. 

A strong and beautifully crafted map of Pennsylvania from the mid-nineteenth century, published by Cowperthwait, Desilver & Butler  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.  The map is filled with myriad topographical details, including rivers, towns, lakes and political borders.  The Cowperthwait, Desilver & Butler 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 immigration and travel.  This information is clearly depicted here, including rail lines, steamboat routes, canals and roads.  Of added interest is the table of distances along steamboat routes that appears in the lower left, and a profile of the Pennsylvania Canal and the Columbia Railroad that appears along the top.  The map has a striking appearance, with bold hand coloring that well complements the clear presentation.  For its fascinating detail and decorative appeal, this is an excellent Pennsylvania document.