1853 Preliminary Sketch of Santa Barbara
By: U.S. Coast Survey
Date: 1853 (dated) Washington, D.C.
Dimensions: 14.5 x 16.75 inches (36.8 x 42.5 cm)
This is one of the earliest obtainable maps of the city of Santa Barbara, California. It was undertaken by the US Coast Survey, which was founded by Thomas Jefferson, but didn’t undertake serious work until the mid-nineteenth century. The Survey’s charts of towns along the Pacific Coast are among the earliest maps available of cities of the region. This chart is highly detailed along the coast and inland and even depicts individual buildings in the city. The map is centered on Santa Barbara and shows roads, rivers, mountains, etc. The Mission and Ruined Village are shown in the mountains above town. Along with sailing directions, offshore soundings are noted.
Soundings offshore are noted, along with sailing directions. The United States Coast Survey was founded by Thomas Jefferson, but did not begin mapping in earnest until the 1840s. The charts of various towns along the Pacific Coast are generally among the earliest obtainable maps of these cities and are important for western collections.
At lower left is the profile "View of the Town and Mission of Santa Barbara" as seen from the sea. This is the only Coast Survey work done on Santa Barbara.
Condition: This map is in B+ condition with a very tiny hole at one of the fold intersections and slight paper toning that is only noticeable under certain light in the ocean above the map title.
Inventory #11573
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