This handsome atlas is the most desirable 1861 edition, and is complete with 31 single-page maps and 30 double-page maps (3 are unnumbered). These beautiful steel engraved plates are rich with color and tremendous detail. Many of the maps include vignettes showing important buildings and vivid scenes. This atlas is highlighted by the short-lived New Military Map of the United States showing military districts. Other maps of interest include Georgetown and the City of Washington, a great map of the plains territories, a nice map of the Pacific Northwest, and a beautifully engraved frontispiece. Several thematic maps and diagrams are also interspersed throughout the text.

The map of the Southwest is one of the most desirable editions. This is an uncommon edition from this great series of maps covering the Southwest, with the newly formed Nevada shown occupying part of California to the summit line of the Sierras. The western border of Nevada extends south from Goose Lake (just west of the 120th meridian) and then continues along the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and finally extends east to meet with the southern border of Utah. The Utah/Nevada border is also too far west on the 116th meridian. Arizona shows up in the southern part of New Mexico Territory. This is thought to represent the Confederate Territory of Arizona that existed for nearly a year from August 1861 until July of 1862. The Confederate General Baylor appointed himself the territorial governor and claimed all of New Mexico Territory south of the 34th parallel. In the southern part of Arizona is the "Gadsden Ten Million Purchase of Mexico." The Gold Region in Colorado's South Park is prominently shown, along with the Hastings Road and the routes of numerous explorers and military expeditions. The map is filled with historic and interesting notations. One note in the area of Quartzite, Arizona refers to the area as being "exceedingly fertile and abundantly timbered and well watered." Additional details include the U.S. Mail routes, and the Emigrant road to California.

Beautifully rebacked in green leather over original embossed green cloth covers, titling in gilt on front cover and spine, and marbled endpapers. A very attractive example of this atlas.

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Condition: A

Maps are very good to mostly near fine with a hint of toning along the sheet edges and occasional foxing. The list of maps and a few maps at the back of the volume have a light dampstain confined to the right blank margin. The covers are slightly rubbed and bumped. Professionally rebacked. An overall very attractive example of this atlas that is typically found in lesser condition.