Subject: Weston, Connecticut
Period: 1929 (published)
Publication: Country Life Magazine
Color: Printed Color
Size:
8.9 x 11.1 inches
22.6 x 28.2 cm
This map of Weston, Connecticut, in Fairfield County, served as the cover image to the June 1929 issue of Country Life Magazine. The map depicts the estate of John Held Jr., the author of the map. In Held Jr.'s typical style, the map is filled with charming imagery and "quaint wisecracks." The estate, known as Grind Stone Hill Farm, was located along the Weston Road near the confluence of the East Branch and West Branch of the Saugatuck River. The property was subdivided into various plots of land, such as for the family house and guest house, hay fields, plowed fields, several pastures, and areas for his horses. The pond shown at top left is still in existence, and is now known as Held Pond. Held Jr. depicts his three adopted children, Joan, Jack and Jill, as well as their family dog, Jinny Ricky. Of course, Held Jr.'s quirky humor is infused in the map, such as a horse-drawn wagon that is distributing seeds described as "spreading good cheer" and the Weston cemetery across the street noted as "excellent neighbors." On verso is an ad for Firestone tires.
John Held Jr. (1889-1958) was an American cartoonist who is best known for his 1920's portrayals of dancing (including the Charleston), driving, playing sports, and other popular activities of the era. During the 1920's, Held was living in Weston, Connecticut, about 30 miles west of Yale.
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Condition: B+
Light soiling and creasing with an old library stamp along the top edge.