Central and Western United States and Adjacent Canada Interstate Map

“Look to the past for faith in America’s future!”

“In these days when our democratic way of life is on trial, when hard-won liberties are challenged, it is reassuring and inspiring to look at the past.” – Back cover.

This detailed road map captures the highway network of the United States west of the Mississippi and portions of Canada. Spread across both sides, the meticulous image notes first, second, and third class roads, time zones, National Parks and Forests, and much more. Accompanying text provides “Information for Sightseers” and an index of places.

The map was copyrighted in 1952 and published by the General Drafting Company, Inc. of New York. Distributed by Esso (Standard Oil of New Jersey) as part of the firm’s Touring Service. Reflections on the ongoing Cold War conflate democratic ideals with the expansion of America’s road network and oil production: “Your Progress and Oil Progress Go Hand in Hand.” A previous owner has marked the route for a long transcontinental trip, taking Route 66 for much of the way to Los Angeles.