N.W. Territory

One of the first printed depictions of the Indiana Territory.

Established in 1787 by an act of the newly formed Congress of the Confederation, the Northwest Territory was the nation’s first post-colonial organized incorporated territory. Though the land would ultimately encompass the majority of six states, in the early 19th century it represented the frontier of fledgling America.

This map, published in a pocket atlas by Matthew Carey around 1801, shows the early development and political organization of the Northwest Territory. Treaty lines, frontier fortifications, and geographic features are noted between the scattered indigenous and American settlements. Of particular interest are Chicago T[own], Fort Knox at Vincennes (the westernmost military outpost), and ‘an extensive high plain’ in the lower peninsula of Michigan. A handful of early expedition routes are also noted, including Lusk’s Ferry Road and the Bullskin Trace.

A fascinating overview of an important transitory period in American history. Described by the Indiana Historical Society as;

“among the most significant [maps] in the IHS Library’s collection, as it is the first one to clearly define the newly christened Indiana Territory framed within the body of the larger Northwest Territory. Though somewhat small in size and limited in detail, this simple map effectively delineates rivers, forts, and the “Indian Line.” A classic for its utility, the map’s focus is integral in documenting early Indiana history; therefore, it has been a popular source used for texts, brochures, and a variety of documentary projects.” 

Source: Mapping Indiana pg. 70