Thirty Three Miles Around the City of New York

Gorgeous example of Colton’s fantastic map showing the area immediately around New York City.

This map, issued first by Colton in 1846, shows the self proclaimed area of 33 miles around New York City. This concept was based on an even earlier map of the same name, published by J.H. Eddy in 1811. It’s unknown why the number 33 was selected, but it’s likely to do with the maximum comfortable range a horse and carriage could travel in a normal eight hour day (averaging 10-15 mph, with breaks). Thus this map can be looked upon as an early representation of recreational opportunities for the city dweller. Even in the early 19th century, New York City was a dirty, dusty and crowded place and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape appealed to many urbanites.

Helpful information for a wide audience is presented within the image, including transportation routes (roads, railways and canals), telegraph lines, commercial industries, post offices, and average mileage between locations. This last piece of data is of particular importance to day travelers. Surrounding the map is a fantastic example of Colton’s decorative floral border, with profile views of city hall buildings in New York and Brooklyn. Colton issued various copies of this map until near the end of the 19th century, with the earlier versions being the most scarce. Later maps would increase the radius to 50 miles, as revolutions in transportation would allow city dwellers to travel further afield in search of rest and relaxation.