Tourist Map of the City of Manila

Manila under American Occupation.

“Possessing the bay of Naples, the winding river of Paris, and the canals of Venice, Manila has before it an opportunity unique in history of modern times, the opportunity to create a unified city equal to the greatest of the Western world with the unparalleled and priceless addition of a tropical setting.” – Daniel Burnham Root

Though Root’s quote above is laden heavily with tones of imperialism, it also reflects the optimism with which many Americans viewed the city of Manila during the U.S. occupation of the Philippines (1898-1946). This tourist map of the city, oriented with east at the top, is emblematic of such ideals. It showcases the American presence both culturally and militarily, labeling buildings like the military hospital and naval wharves in addition to Burnham Green, ballparks, and the carnival grounds.

Proposed improvements dating back to Burnham’s Manila Plan of 1905 can also be seen throughout, notably in Rizal Park and along the waterfront. Dewey (Roxas) Boulevard and the Luneta are two lasting legacies, though most of the other elements from Burnham’s plan failed to materialize due in large part to the outbreak of World War II. A list of steamship agencies, recommended shopping districts, and information on regional motor excursions can be found on the verso.

The map was originally published in ‘Gateway’ – A Guide to Manila and has been reprinted here by the Philippine Tourist Association, headquartered in Hotel Manila. It was likely published around 1932, based on the description of the New Municipal Theater (Numbered Site 8) – completed in 1931.

Sources: Daniel Burnham Plan of Manila; How US planners experimented with “the iron hand of power” over colonial Manila