1832 · New York
by BURR, David H.
New York: David H Burr, 1832. Map. Hand-colored engraving. 14 x 18.75 inches, with original brown leather booklet. This important map of New York City was issued as a pocket map around 1832 by David Burr. It covers lower Manhattan from roughly 30th street south to include the northernmost parts of Brooklyn and Williamsburg, which at the time were separate cities. Incredibly detailed, it notes churches, ferry lines, government buildings, parks, squares, and other important landmarks. Columbia College is noted on Murray Street. The old Fulton Fish Market, St. Mark's Church in the East Village, and the nation's first hospital at Bellevue are also identified. Burr's Map Store is noted near City Hall, although we can't be sure if it was real or fictitious, made up specifically for this map. The map is in good condition with some spotting and toning, especially along the original fold lines. Some manuscript ink notations alone the top left margin. Backed with restoration paper for stability. David H. Burr (1803-1875) was a significant American cartographer and map publisher known best for his 1826 Atlas of the State of New York, one of the most important state atlases in history. His rigorous research and surveying won him accolades particularly later in life, when he was granted a number of civic offices in recognition of his high-quality work. He served as Topographer to the United States Post Office and Geographer to the House of Representatives and was widely known for his accuracy and attention to detail. This beautiful map is a fascinating piece of New York City history. (Inventory #: 321720)