1923 Washington - The Beautiful Capital of the Nation
By: William Olsen
Date: 1923 (dated) Washington D.C.
Dimensions: 22 x 31.5 inches (56 x 80 cm)
A handsome and detailed bird's-eye view of Washington, D.C., created by William Olsen for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. This artistic depiction offers a panoramic perspective of the city, with the Capitol Building prominently featured at its center, surrounded by the vast expanse of the nation's capital.
The map is richly detailed, with important buildings and places of interest clearly labeled. Prominent structures such as the Capitol, the White House, various government departments, and national monuments are all identifiable, providing a comprehensive visual guide to the city. The orientation of the lithograph allows viewers to see Washington, D.C., in its entirety, with streets, parks, and key landmarks meticulously rendered.
The lower margin of the lithograph contains a legend that identifies the locations of these important buildings, including the Department of Treasury, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Washington Monument. This legend, combined with the intricate detail of the map, would have made it a valuable resource for both tourists and residents in understanding the layout of Washington, D.C.
In the lower right corner, a printed description of the work, proclaims it to be an "Aero View" unlike any other previously made because of the vast area depicted with such comprehensive detail. The decorative border surrounding the map adds an artistic flair, typical of lithographs from this period, enhancing both its aesthetic and practical value.
History and Significance of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad
The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O) was founded on February 28, 1827, and holds the distinction of being the first common carrier railroad and the oldest railroad in the United States. The primary purpose of the B&O was to connect the port of Baltimore to the Ohio River, facilitating westward expansion and economic development. This railroad was a remarkable engineering achievement of its time, featuring the nation’s first stone bridges, tunnels, and steam-powered locomotives. These innovations set a new standard for railroad construction and operation in the United States.
Additionally, the B&O Railroad was instrumental in connecting Washington, D.C., to other major cities, making travel to the nation's capital more accessible. The railroad played a significant role in transporting troops and supplies during the Civil War, solidifying its importance in American history. The B&O Railroad was immortalized in American culture, becoming one of the four railroads featured in the game Monopoly. Its legacy continues as a symbol of American industrial prowess and expansion.
About the Artist
William Olsen was an American artist and lithographer active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for his detailed bird's-eye view maps. His work focused on creating large-scale lithographs that depicted cities and towns with remarkable precision. These maps, often commissioned by railroads, businesses, or local governments, were used to promote economic development and tourism. His works serve as valuable historical documents that offer insight into the urban development of America during his time.
Condition: Map is in A+ condition, originally issued folded, now flat and linen-backed for preservation and presentation purposes.
Inventory #12760
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