This is Sitgreaves' report documenting the important reconnaissance into hitherto forbidding and unknown country. The expedition consisted of Sitgreaves, Lieutenant J. G. Parke, Dr. S. W. Woodhouse, R. H. Kern, with Major H. L. Kendrick in command of the escort and Antoine Leroux as guide. The group left Santo Domingo, New Mexico, on August 1, 1851, stopped at Zuni in September and arrived at San Diego on November 30. The fine plates were drawn by R. H. Kern. Twenty-four of these plates are tinted and represent Arizona topography and the personal appearance, domestic habits, pueblos, and ceremonies of the Mojave, Zuni, and other Indian tribes of the Colorado plateau. The large folding map, which is normally missing, "Reconnaissance of the Zuni, Little Colorado and Colorado Rivers in 1851….." (47.5 x 26.3") is highly praised for over two pages by Wheat who calls it "a monumental achievement…..exceedingly well done." Hardbound, 198 pp, 78 lithographed plates (one folding, some tinted), folding map bound at back. Original light brown calf binding with red and black gilt stamped leather labels to spine. First edition of this scarce issue printed by Robert Armstrong.

References: Wagner-Camp: 230:2; Wheat (TMW) #763.

Condition: B

Plates and map are very good. Covers rubbed and bumped, spine has been reattached. Text pages with some ink offsetting. Front cover starting to separate.