This impressive map was prepared by Jason Safford, State Geologist. It is the second, much improved geological map of Tennessee after Troost’s smaller sketch map published in 1840. This map should not to be confused with Safford’s more commonly seen 1869 edition. Cartographically, the state is color-coded to show 14 different geologic types including Mississippi bottoms, coal, limestone, slate, and more. An inset at top right also depicts the copper veins and mines in the far southeastern portion of the state bordering Georgia and North Carolina. A legend at lower right further identifies furnaces, rolling mills, forges, and more. At bottom is a geological section spanning the state.

The map is still bound into the 164 page A Geological Reconnoissance of the State of Tennessee. First edition. Printed by G.C. Torbett & Co. in Nashville. Octavo, hardbound in brown blind-stamped cloth with gilt title on front cover.

References: Marcou & Marcou #558.

Condition: B+

The folding map is very good with light scattered foxing, a few tiny splits at fold intersections, and two pencil notations near the table at top left. The text is very bright with only a few spots of foxing. There is an old library bookplate on the front pastedown, and the spine and covers are sunned.