Auction Name: 2026 February 26 Historical Manuscripts & Texana Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 47063

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/6328*47063

William J. Keeler. National Map of the Territory of the United States From the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean. Washington: J. F. Gedney, 1867. 57 1/2 x 48 inches. Hand-colored map with original linen backing, showing sites of gold, silver, copper, quicksilver, iron, and coal mines, as well as railroads and several "Indian Reserves" in the West. "One of the best maps of its period, far superior to the General Land Office maps and most of the other commercial productions," according to Rumsey.

Lacking original boards; title from original brown cloth binding affixed to the verso, reading: "Keeler's Map of the U. S. Territories Pacific R. R. Routes Mineral Lands and Indian Reservations. 1867." Also affixed to the verso is a dark blue leather patch bearing the name of Isaac Hinckley, president of the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad (PW&B). Hinckley was appointed president in 1865 and remained in that position until his death in 1888, developing numerous rail lines to connect the suburbs of the Northeast.

There is a newspaper clipping affixed to the bottom right edge, dated October 27, 1868, describing the upcoming opening of the Union Pacific Railroad. In part: "The Union Pacific Railroad is soon to be opened to Bryan, 860 miles from Omaha. This will shorten the time between Omaha and San Francisco to eight days...From New York to Omaha requires three days, so that the traveler who possesses the needful endurance can now reach San Francisco from New York in eleven days..."

Condition: Evenly age toned. Several small separations from the linen backing at the folds. Pinholes and minor loss at edges, not affecting text. Scattered staining and foxing, largely confined to edges. Newspaper clipping pinned (with nail) to bottom right edge.

Reference: Rumsey 397.002.

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