Massachusetts

The Bay State at the end of the 19th century.

This detailed lithographed map of Massachusetts was published in Chicago by Rand McNally in 1898 as part of the company’s Index Atlas of the World.

Vibrant original color distinguishes the outlines of fourteen counties, though four subsequent border changes would be made between the date of printing and today. Connecting each is an impressive network of railroads, shown with bold black lines and dotted with numerous towns and stations along each route.

Also labeled are townships, post offices, and a fascinating variety of geographic features like beaches, ponds, and harbors. A larger scale inset in the lower left shows the vicinity of Boston, naming a handful of important buildings like the Theological Seminary, forts, and railroad depots.