Territory of Dakota 1879

Scarce map of the Dakota Territory published in 1879.

This fascinating map of the Dakota Territory (statehood would not be achieved until 1889) provides a tremendous amount of information regarding the gradual development of the Great Plains. Patterns of settlement can be seen moving from east to west, concentrated along railroads and navigable rivers.

Of particular interest are the routes of the Northern Pacific, which are shown in three variations according to the accompanying legend. The initial proposed route is indicated in the north, with the amended, more southern route, noted as reaching Bismarck.

Native American reservations, military encampments and land agencies reflect the ongoing antagonism in the region, which culminated in the Great Sioux War of 1876. The resulting annexation of the Black Hills region, partially through executive order, is labeled and dated in the lower left of the image.

The map was issued as part of a Senate Report in 1879 and compiled by C. Roesner of the General Land Office, a division of the United States Department of the Interior.