Catalog Archive
Auction 120, Lot 341

"General Map of Charleston Harbor South Carolina Showing Rebel Defenses and Obstructions", U.S. War Department

Subject: Charleston, South Carolina

Period: 1865 (dated)

Publication: Annual Report of the Secretary of the Navy

Color: Printed Color

Size:
24.8 x 21.8 inches
63 x 55.4 cm
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This fascinating map was produced under the direction of Rear Admiral J.A. Dahlgren U.S.N. commanding South Atlantic Blockading Squadron, by C.O. Boutelle Asst. U.S. Coast Survey. It shows the surveys of the shore line, channels, and fortifications with the location of Union and Rebel Batteries shown in color. It details positions of shipwrecks, obstructions, and torpedoes including the Housatonic, Keokuk, Flamingo, and many more. Tracks of numerous torpedoes are detailed. Many interesting notes include one giving the position of Ironsides as it lay over a 2,000 pound torpedo for "one hour" on April 7th, 1863. Table at lower left, Armament of Rebel Forts and notes explain the various symbols on the map. Charleston is shown as a detailed street grid. Possibly the best chart of Charleston Harbor of the Civil War era. Extends to include Forts Shaw, Marshall, Sumter, Wagner and Johnson, plus many batteries.

References:

Condition: A

A very nice example with just a hint of toning at two folds, and two tiny fold intersection splits. Lovely coloring and full margins.

Estimate: $300 - $350

Sold for: $425

Closed on 7/18/2007

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