Subject: Exploration and Surveys
Period: 1901-02 (dated)
Publication:
Color: Black & White
The first is "Report of the Superintendent of the Geodetic Survey Showing the Progress of the Work from July1, 1899, to June 30, 1900." It has two historically important sections that include dozens of tables, numerous photographic views, small maps printed within the text and folding maps interspersed throughout. This report also includes eleven folded maps and sketches in the rear pocket. Appendix 2 describes the field operations including the cruise of the steamer "Pathfinder" from Washington, D.C. to San Francisco and eventually Honolulu, also includes Alaskan surveys at the mouth of the Yukon River and at Cape Nome. Appendix 3 provides details on the boundary line between California and Nevada (pgs. 257-484) and includes a nice view of Lake Tahoe. Complete volume with 724 pp, 4to, Sen. Doc. No. 68, 56th Cong., 2d. Sess., 1901. Hardbound in original sheepskin covers with gilt titling over red and black bands on spine. (9.5" x 11.5")
The second is "Report of the Superintendent of the Coast and Geodetic Survey July 1900 - July 1901." It has 440 pages of interesting details regarding the operations for the twelve month period. This example has charts, tables, photographic views and maps too numerous to count. An additional four large folding maps are in the rear pocket. Details of field operations include items on Alaska, Hawaii, Porto Rico and triangulation progress in Maryland, Virginia, Michigan, District of Columbia, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Mississippi. Of special note is a section on nine base lines along the 98th meridian from Norfolk, Nebraska south to Alice, Texas. This complete volume is hardbound in original sheepskin with gilt titling over red and black bands on spine. Sen. Doc. No. 50, 57th Cong., 1st Sess., 1902. (9.0" x 11.5"). The pair.
References:
Condition: B+
The first has very good contents with some age toning mostly along edges. Contents loose from covers and spine, with front cover separated. Signatures are tight. Rear cover has a large abrasion. The second's contents are very good with crisp printing on bright paper. Some minor age toning along edges. Covers are scuffed with rear board separated. Front hinge and spine are starting to separate.