Rare map from the first edition of Cram's most celebrated atlas. This beautiful example is a large double page map which includes a large portion of the Indian Territory which is also shown in full detail and hand colored. Filled with towns and villages, wagon roads, watershed and more. The railway system is limited to the eastern protions with Dallas and Houston as the two hubs. Spurs extend westward to San Antonio, Austin City and beyond Ft. Worth to Mary's Creek. County development is advanced with all counties including unorganized ones delineated and named. On the verso is a "County Census of Texas" which lists each county and town with populations. Towns with less than 10 people are shown with a plus sign. The map carries the date of 1879 with a copyright date of 1878. The imprint is Cram's Western Map Depot, 66 Lake St. Chicago, Ills. There was a close relationship between the Cram and Watson firms, who also published from this address. This Lake Street address was the home to Cram's publishing company between 1873 and 1879, thereafter moving to Wabash Avenue. A rarely seen map of the state.

References: Chicago Map Makers: "George F. Cram and the American Perception of Space" Gerald A. Danzer

Condition: A

Near fine example with strong, bold impression and beautiful full hand coloring. On a full sheet with original margins. A trace of offsetting barely visible in a couple areas, otherwise fine.