Catalog Archive
Auction 145, Lot 309

"Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Channel between the Continent & Vancouver Id…", U.S. Hydrographic Office

Subject: Washington

Period: 1872 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
44 x 29 inches
111.8 x 73.7 cm
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This detailed chart, joined on two sheets, is the end result of the infamous "Pig War" of 1859. The conflict between the United States and Great Britain arose from a dispute over the shooting of a free range pig, owned by a British subject, while the pig was foraging an American's potato garden. This occurred on the disputed San Juan Island, the westernmost of what are now called the San Juan Islands. The conflict escalated into a standoff of 5 British warships with 2,140 men against 461 American troops, part of whom were commanded by none other than Captain George Picket (who later commanded the infamous charge at Gettysburg that bears his name). This situation remained until cooler heads in Washington resolved to end the conflict a few months later.

References:

Condition: B+

Issued folding with light toning along the folds, a hint of offsetting, and an edge tear at left that extends 2" into the image closed on verso with archival tape.

Estimate: $250 - $300

Sold for: $600

Closed on 6/12/2013

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