This first edition, early emigrant guide does not list an author, but is generally attributed to a M. Fiske. According to Streeter, the book gives a "fresh and interesting picture of life in Texas at that time." The volume is handsomely illustrated with 4 plates that Streeter describes as well designed "and perhaps are the earliest of sporting scenes in the West." While small in size, the highly detailed plates engraved by J.T. Hammond include: Mr. Neil's Estate near Brazoria, Shooting a Deer on the Prairie, Lazooing a Horse of the Prairie, and Road Through a Cane Brake. The frontispiece to the volume is the important Map of the State of Coahuila and Texas that shows early land grants including Austin's Colony, Beales Grant, De Witt's Grant, Thorns Grant, and Dominguez Grant to name a few. According the Martin & Martin, the map is "clearly based upon Austin's sources." In addition to the land grants, the map identifies "Herds of Buffalo" and Comanches Indians in west Texas. Engraved by W. Hooker, this map would also appear in Mary Austin Holley’s Texas, which was published a few short months later. 264 pages, folding map, 4 plates, and a 4 page meteorological journal. 12mo, hardbound in green cloth with gilt tile and illustration on spine. Published by Goodrich & Wiley in New York.

References: Howes #T145; Sabin #95133; Streeter #1155; Streeter Sale #330; Martin & Martin, p. 32

Condition: B

The folding map is good to very good and has been backed with old linen to reinforce and repair a 9" binding tear at right. The map also has minor foxing and light toning. The 4 plates have light to moderate foxing, and the text is bright with occasional foxing. There are minor pencil notations on the front and rear pastedowns, and ink notations on the rear free end paper. Light overall external wear with bumped edges.