Catalog Archive
Auction 129, Lot 230

"No. 15 Map of Oregon and Upper California", Mitchell, Samuel Augustus

Subject: Western United States

Period: 1846 (dated)

Publication: Mitchell's School and Family Geography

Color: Hand Color

Size:
8 x 10 inches
20.3 x 25.4 cm
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This is the smaller school atlas version of Mitchell's well-known map that is based largely on Fremont's landmark map of 1845. This edition has the US/Canadian boundary as we know it today with the notation "Boundary of 1846." Upper California extends eastward to the Rio Grande and Oregon Territory to the Continental Divide. The map delineates the Oregon Route (Oregon Trail) in good detail as it winds from the Sweetwater River through South Pass and on to Oregon City. Numerous Indian tribes and villages and forts are located. It gives an early depiction of the Great Basin, here called the Great Interior Basin of California, utilizing information from Fremont's explorations. At lower left is the inset "Map of the Columbia River from the Cascades to the Pacific Ocean," which locates Oregon City, Ft. Vancouver, an unnamed mission on the Columbia, Mt. Hood, and Mt. St. Helens noted with a height of 13,300 feet. Beneath the title is a detailed notation describing the U.S. claims to Oregon Territory.

References: Wheat (TMW) 518; Wheat (Gold) #28.

Condition: B+

Fine, dark impression and original color. Even overall age toning with a couple of spots at lower left. A nice example on supple paper.

Estimate: $160 - $200

Sold for: $120

Closed on 9/23/2009

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