1813 Upper Territories of the United States
By: John Carey
Date: 1813 (published) Philadelphia
Dimensions: 8 x 6 inches (20.25 x 15.25 cm)
A sharp example of an important, early 19th century map of the old American Northwest Territory now referred to as the Midwest. The map presents much of the area prior to statehood and includes frontier forts, fur trapping houses, early settlements, and territorial boundaries that would change in coming years.
The territories of Indiana and Illinois, established in 1800 and 1809 respectively, appear prominently below the North Western and Michigan Territory which does not include the Upper Peninsula. Illinois is noticeably displaced westward from its actual location, with Chicago situated in the Northwest Territory or present-day Wisconsin. While there are settlements along the Mississippi River, the interior of Illinois remains devoid of any.
Indiana includes some settlements, with a focus on Fort Wayne and Ouiatenon lands, initially acquired through the Treaty of Grenville (1795). The map also depicts Ft. S. Clare on Lake Huron and Detroit. Ohio, the only state show on this map at the time of its publication exhibits a sparse population distribution.
The majority of settlements in the Northwest Territory during the early 19th century were concentrated along waterways due to the limited presence of stagecoach roads and complete absence of railroad infrastructure. Recognizing this, Carey opted to offer extensive details about the paths of rivers and streams, acknowledging their crucial role in facilitating transportation and settlement in the region.
Condition: Map is in B+ condition with a minor pinhole in the top center and fairly even toning save for the horizontal centerfold. The print impression is strong and ample margins are present on all sides for easy framing.
Inventory #12663
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