The Rhine Panorama and Guide

Cruising the Rhine in the wake of Germany’s defeat.

This charming pictorial map shows the course of the Rhine River in Germany between Mainz and Cologne. The folding guide was published in Bonn by Wilhelm Stollfuss in late 1945 or 1946 for use by American servicemen stationed in the occupation area. Local transportation routes and travelers’ amenities are noted according to the legend at the bottom of the long sheet. Vignettes on either side of the central image highlight locations of interest along the route.

The original German text has been translated into English by Dorothy Hill, with various additions reflecting damage inflicted during the war. Further commentary has been added in manuscript to the ‘end’ of the map that indicates its use somewhat later: “Bonn – leveled – new buildings, very modern station. Much debree [sic] overgrown with vines. Big thunderstorm & downpour.”