An important Mexican-American War period map that shows the route of Col. Kearny and his Army of the West as they traveled from Ft. Leavenworth to Los Angeles via Santa Fe and San Diego. It provides detailed information of what would become the Southern Trail to the California gold fields. Wheat calls the map “a document of towering significance” and an important milestone in the cartographic development and accurate determination of the geography of the Southwest. A large map printed on three sheets, joined as issued.

The map is still bound into a complete example of Emory's important report documenting the 1846-47 journey through an untamed countryside where “barrenness and desolation hold their reign.” Emory's report is a major contribution to the geographical knowledge of the American West and an enjoyable read, with passages such as "I stopped in the little town of Isoletta, to visit my friend, the accolade, who has the reputation, Indian though he be, of being the most honest man and best maker of brandy in the territory." The report summarizes the activity of the U.S. Army of the West after the capture of New Mexico with important early views of the region. It is further illustrated with 26 lithographed views including San Diego, 3 battle maps, and 14 botanical plates. Published by H. Long & Brother in New York. 230 pages. Hardbound in contemporary brown cloth with gilt title on spine.

References: Wheat (TMW) #544; Wagner & Camp #148:3; Howes #E-145.

Condition:

The large folding map has light toning in the right half, minor foxing, and a repaired 2" binding tear at left. Plates are mostly clean and bright with occasional foxing. Text is bright with some light to moderate foxing. Covers have light wear and bumped corners. Large map (B) / Plates and Binding (B+)