Automobile Map of Washington, D.C. District
Early 20th-century map of the auto routes around the nation’s capital.
Out of stock
Description
This early road map of the ‘Washington District’ was published in Boston in 1909 by the Walker Lithograph and Publishing Company. It was issued on behalf of The Automobile Club of America, the first such organization in the country (founded in 1899) and a fierce competitor of AAA. The image highlights the ‘good automobile routes’ in red, while ‘other routes’ (presumably those whose passability is subject to the weather) are indicated with hash marks. Railroads, steamship lines, settlements, and carriage routes/dirt paths unsuitable for autos are also noted throughout.
The geographic scope of the map is interesting, presenting the Washington District as one situated mostly east of the city, including large portions of Maryland’s East Shore. A double-sided route description of New York to Delaware Water Gap is included.
Four examples of the map noted in WorldCat as of May 2024, at the Library of Congress, Western Michigan University, Western University, and George Washington University. OCLC# 16982556.
Map Details
Publication Date: 1909
Author: The Automobile Club of America
Sheet Width (in): 42.5
Sheet Height (in): 27.75
Condition: B+
Condition Description: Map dissected into 30 segments and mounted on contemporary linen backing. Upper left panels show moderate discoloration. Some toning, light soiling, and faint wear along the edges of each panel, consistent with age and use. Scattered soiling on the verso does not affect the image. Good to very good overall.
Out of stock