This attractive pocket map was issued as part of a guide for travelers and immigrants heading west. It is densely filled with information on stage roads, railroads, political divisions, towns and villages, watershed and canals. The areas of Minnesota and northern Wisconsin are sparsely settled, however a number of newly organized counties are shown in southeastern Minnesota, updated from the previous year's map. Two large tables list the routing and distances for Steam Boat Routes throughout the area. The map is embellished with a decorative floral border and the engraved vignette "Maidens Rock, Lake Pepin on the Mississippi." The map is accompanied by a 100-page guide and extensive 37-page catalog of maps, charts, and books published by Colton. Folds into gilt embossed green cloth covers (4.0 x 5.9") with title "Colton's Western States Guide Book with a Map." Map is dated 1855 but guide book is dated 1856.

References: cf. Karpinski p. 260; Howes #S-615.

Condition: B+

A nice, bright example, issued folding with a few short splits at fold intersections, light soiling and foxing, and a stain in the border at left where the map was glued into the guidebook. The text has scattered foxing and the covers are sunned, worn and stained.