Johnson’s United States

Beautiful map of the United States shortly before the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad.

Though it was only in operation for about 18 months, the Pony Express left a permanent impact on the identity (and mythology) of the American West. It’s clearly labeled on this map, operating in the gap between the Central and Union Pacific Railroads, even though the company officially went bankrupt seven years prior (due largely to the telegraph).

Other important routes can also be seen traversing the country; notably the Transcontinental Railroad, which would be completed the year after publication. Numerous explorations, the Santa Fe and Oregon Trails, Overland Trail to Denver, and proposed Northern & Southern Pacific Railroads are also all labeled.

Bright color distinguishes an almost-modern depiction of the state outlines, with a few notable exceptions. The new Wyoming Territory is faintly labeled, but will undergo further adjustments (along with the nearby Montana and Dakota Territories) prior to statehood). Nevada is shown with recent territorial acquisitions from the Pah-Ute County in Arizona, with the ‘mines’ in the south alluding to the underlying reason – the mineral wealth in the area.

Published in New York by Alvin Jewett Johnson in 1868.