America the Wonderland

A spectacular visual commemoration of the United States in the middle of the 20th century.

This eye-catching pictorial map of the United States was originally designed and copywritten by the talented Ernest Dudley Chase in 1941. Chase licensed the use of his work to numerous manufacturers and publishers, and this later example was printed in a 1954 issue of the Philadelphia Inquirer. Despite being issued on news sheet, the map retains the vibrant color and immense appeal of the original.

Dozens of vignettes covering nearly every part of the image highlight the architectural grandeur, historic sites, natural features, and major industries across America – all illustrated in Chase’s iconic pictorial style. Further scenes around the ‘border'(actually occupying most of Canada and Mexico) highlight other recognizable locations across the U.S., from the Mission Dolores in San Diego to Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

Chase gives ample credit to Mother Nature, with views of the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, Old Faithful, and Yosemite Falls occupying each corner. America the Wonderland is certainly a fitting title to such a celebratory composition, issued in a major newspaper shortly after the end of the Korean War and at the height of McCarthyism.

Source: George Glazer Gallery