Rare Civil War era variant of Colton’s map of the Southwest showing modern Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada and Colorado.

Colton originally issued this map in 1855 under the title of “Territories of Utah and New Mexico.” Although the printed date on the map did not change, the border configurations, through approximately thirteen different variants, provide a fascinating sequence of geographical development in the American southwest.

This version is one of the most unusual and desirable of the issues. Possibly the most salient geographical feature is the large territory of New Mexico which bears a distinct horizontal territory on its southernmost part named “Arizona”. This geographical orientation is only published between 1859 and 1862 and refers to Arizona’s brief attempt to secede to the Confederacy during the approach to the Civil War. Colorado has now had its borders defined and Denver City is marked. Nevada is shown with its eastern border far further west than it would become and without access to the Colorado River.

Several important routes are marked, including the Oregon Trail, John Fremont’s route across the west and several important wagon roads and Spanish trails. One of the most prominent features is the Pony Express route: one section running west of the Salt Lake City and another running east of Denver City.

This is one of Colton’s most desirable maps and an essential cartographic piece for anyone interested in the history of the American West. Original colour. [USA9653]