Catalog Archive
Auction 179, Lot 215

"[Lot of 3] No. 1. Reconnaissance of the Lava Beds Showing Position of Jack’s Stronghold... [and] No. 2. Reconnaissance of the Lava Beds Sketch Showing Location of Jack’s Cave... [with] Preliminary Report ... on Reconnoissance of the Lava-Beds..."

Subject: Northern California

Period: 1873 (published)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
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Two small maps by Captain G.J. Lydecker drawn shortly after the defeat of Captain Jack, the Modoc leader:

A. No. 1. Reconnaissance of the Lava Beds Showing Position of Jack’s Stronghold, Lake Shore and General Character of the Country Between Hospital Rock and Gen. Gillem’s Camp, (6.6 x 7.9"). Shows Jack's Stronghold, General Gillem's Camp, and the Battle of April 26th.

B. No. 2. Reconnaissance of the Lava Beds Sketch Showing Location of Jack’s Cave, and Portion of His Defensive Line, (6.1 x 8.0"). Identifies Jack's Cave and the Modoc's defense line.

Accompanied by the two page preliminary report. The Modoc War was the only major Indian War fought in California, and the only one in which a general (Canby) of the regular Army was killed (Custer was not a general at the time of his death). The Modoc warriors, never more than 60, used the difficult terrain of the lava beds to hold off the U.S. troops numbering 400 to 530 for most of a year until battles in May, 1873 led to the capture and execution of Captain Jack. For a brief history, click here.

References:

Condition: B+

Issued folding with a few spots of foxing and a hint of offsetting.

Estimate: $160 - $190

Sold for: $120

Closed on 9/16/2020

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