Subject: Western Virginia, Atlases
Period: 1885 (published)
Publication:
Color: Hand Color
Size:
15.2 x 18 inches
38.6 x 45.7 cm
This attractive atlas is filled with detailed information pertaining to the history and development of Augusta County, Virginia. The text is is divided into three parts: a historical perspective from the first settlement to 1880, a description of the physical features of the county, and biographical sketches of 34 prominent figures from the area including Cyrus McCormick (inventor of the mechanical reaper and founder of the International Harvester Company). The 48 pages of text are augmented by 58 illustrations (primarily residences) and 21 of 22 maps (lacking the "geological map"). Includes nineteen maps by Jedediah Hotchkiss (former cartographer for the Confederate Army) including the folding Map of Augusta County (15.5 x 15.5"), double-page Map of the City of Staunton (18.5 x 14.7"), double-page Map of the Town of Waynesboro (23.4 x 12.2"), and six other double-page maps of magisterial districts. The maps show the transportation networks, towns and settlements, and a wealth of information about individual property owners. Also includes two printed color maps of the United States and Virginia/West Virginia by Rand McNally. Published by Waterman, Watkins & Co. in Chicago. Hardbound in quarter leather over maroon cloth-covered boards with gilt title on front cover.
References: Rumsey #5747.
Condition: B+
Internally very good. The maps, plates and text are mostly clean and bright with pleasant light toning. There is occasional staining along the gutter which only enters the image of one magisterial district map. The binding is somewhat loose - especially at bottom, but the signatures are still intact. Spine is heavily chipped at top and bottom and has almost perished. Covers are moderately worn and almost detached.