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.

This is the third state of this fascinating map of South Carolina by Samuel Lewis. The topography of the state is shown in fine detail, as are precincts, towns, waterways, and roads. As a result of the distorted scale of the latitude measurements, the state appears stretched from north to south. In addition, the northwest border with Georgia extends South Carolina farther west than is accurate. Two of the most influential names in American cartography were Samuel Lewis and Mathew Carey. Samuel Lewis was a celebrated draftsman and cartographer who learned his trade from the prominent English cartographer Aaron Arrowsmith. Engraved by William Barker.

References: Phillips (Atlases) #1372-19; Wheat & Brun #601.

Condition: B+

Original outline color on watermarked paper with a bit of foxing along the centerfold and some light printer's ink residue. A centerfold separation that extends 1.5" into the image at bottom has been archivally repaired.