Catalog Archive
Auction 117, Lot 188

"Map Illustrating the Plan of the Defences of the Western & North-Western Frontier, as proposed by Charles Gratiot, in his report of Oct. 31, 1837", Gratiot, Charles

Subject: Central United States

Period: 1860 (published)

Publication: Military Affairs, Vol. VII, No. 753-B

Color: Hand Color

Size:
15.2 x 21.5 inches
38.6 x 54.6 cm
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This map is a later printing from the series of maps that illustrated the factious Congressional debate over the nature of the Frontier Defenses between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains. Issued under the direction of Col. A.A. Albert by W. Hood, the map includes the states of Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana and the Indian nations bordering them to the west. Locates many military forts and outposts from Ft. Jessup to Ft. Snelling with notations throughout concerning lands ceded by several Indian nations with dates of the treaties. The threat posed by hostile Indians, whose numbers greatly exceeded those of the settlers in the area, resulted in a protracted Congressional debate concerning the defenses required along the frontier. Gratiot’s plan uses color to trace the common roads and rivers to emphasize the nearness of Indian Tribes to towns and spreading settlements. A table at lower left notes distances and time between forts, "estimating a day's march at 15 miles."

References: cf Wheat [TMW] #426.

Condition: A

Nice example that was issued folding, but now is backed with archival tissue. Very light toning at one fold line, still very good.

Estimate: $200 - $300

Sold for: $150

Closed on 12/6/2006

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