This is the report of (then) Captain Simpson explorations in Utah Territory during 1859. While this report was submitted in 1861 it was not published until 1876 because of the Civil War. The report covers a broad range of topics from geography, geology, zoology and history that Simpson observed as he explored a route from Camp Floyd (near Salt Lake City) to Carson City, Nevada. This route was extremely important in the country's westward expansion as his route reduced the distance from the east to San Francisco by more than 250 miles. Not surprisingly, it was quickly adopted by the overland mail, pony express and the telegraph. This complete report includes 495 pages of text, an index, 24 illustrations, a large map entitled Map of Wagon Routes in Utah Territory which details Simpson's explorations (47.5 x 26"), and a smaller map Routes of Father Escalante from Santa Fe to Lake Utah and Back (9.5 x 8.7"). Quarto, hardbound in green cloth boards with gilt title on spine.

References: Wheat (TMW) #999; cf. Wagner & Camp #345.

Condition: B+

The large folding map is very good with just a hint of offsetting and a few tiny splits at fold intersections. Text and plates are lightly toned. The title page is missing and one of the folding geologic cross-section plates is moderately torn/separated. The covers have average wear and are close to separating. Two-thirds of the spine label has detached but is present.