Mathew Carey was a seminal figure in early American publishing; establishing the first publishing firm to specialize in cartography and issuing the first atlas devoted exclusively to American maps. He set up an elaborate cottage system of craftsmen for compiling, engraving, printing, and coloring maps. This practice was emulated by later American cartographic publishers such as John Melish and Henry S. Tanner. The American Atlas concept was also adopted by other publishers in both the United States and Europe.

As noted in the title, this map is reduced version of Barker's map, which was also published by Mathew Carey. It is a detailed topographical map covering Kentucky with part of Tennessee (Tennassee Government). Roads and trails are depicted in addition to early settlements and Indian villages. Several early counties are named, but not delineated. The eastern Kentucky boundary is shown following the west fork of the Big Sandy River instead of the east fork. This is the second state with the page number 40 at upper right.

References: Wheat & Brun #642.

Condition: B+

There is a bit of light toning and a couple tiny paper flaws, else very good with wide original margins.