A. Karte von Iowa, by Joseph Meyer, from Grosser Hand-Atlas, dated 1852 (15.1 x 11.6"). This is the German edition of Mitchell's map of Iowa from the New Universal Atlas, with a German title but English place names. This map was issued only six years after Iowa became a state and development is still confined to the eastern part of the state and along major waterways. The map shows good detail of the mid-19th century county development as well as the cities, towns, forts, topographical details and roads, including the Mormon Trail from Polk City to Wheeling's Ford. The capital is located at Iowa City and Des Moines is still Ft. Des Moinis. Many of the western counties are newly organized, but contain no settlements. Condition: Some faint foxing along the top and bottom neatlines. (A)

B. A New Map of the State of Iowa, by Charles Desilver, from A New Universal Atlas, dated 1856 (15.9 x 13.1"). This striking map focuses on the various transportation routes in the state, depicting roads (including those proposed and those in progress), canals, and railroads in addition to counties, towns, and rivers. Engraved by J.L. Hazzard. Condition: There are a few tiny spots scattered throughout the map and the margins have been cropped at top and bottom, with loss of part of the decorative border at top. (B+)

C. Iowa, by Joseph Hutchins Colton, from Colton's Atlas of the World, dated 1855 (15.3 x 12.7"). This detailed state and county map includes railroads, roads, post offices, and topographical information. All counties are present, but the northwestern quarter of the state is largely unsettled. Condition: Light soiling, minor scattered foxing, and an edge tear that enters about 1" into the neatline that has been closed on verso with non-archival tape. (B)

References:

Condition:

See description above.