Map of South Central North Dakota Showing Lands for Sale by Carlos N. Boynton

Ephemeral real estate map of North Dakota.

This is a rare 1904 promotional map that showcases the extensive land holdings in south-central North Dakota owned by Carlos N. Boynton of the Boynton Land Company. Parcels of green and red show those lots sold and available for sale, respectively, with the bold color combination giving implied urgency to the audience.

The image presents a convincing case for settlement and capital investment. A robust network of railroads (several of which are only proposed) connects rural farming communities to the state capital at Bismarck and other market towns. Tables of statistics outline the growing population, the production of valuable agricultural products, and heavy investment in local schools. Even recent laurels from the 1904 St. Louis Exposition are celebrated at the bottom of the page!

Carlos N. Boynton, a successful real estate promoter with vast holdings in multiple states, was a key figure in the Boynton Land Company. The company was a major player in promoting farmlands in the western regions of Minnesota during this era. Boynton’s partner, Leslie Sylvester Hackney, also played a pivotal role as a speculator, initially working as a farm equipment salesman before venturing into real estate with his farmer clients.

The duo’s most significant achievement was the acquisition of 1,250,000 acres of land along the Northern Pacific Railway’s North Dakota lands, a record-breaking real estate transaction for the region. Their efforts, along with a team of 1500 agents, resulted in sales of over 700,000 acres of land to settlers, farmers, and speculators, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the region.