- Title: GEOGRAPHICAL, TOPOGRAPHICAL AND RAILROAD MAP OF CALIFORNIA
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Author: California Development Board
- Date: 1910
- Condition: See description
- Inches: 20 x 25 3/8 [Image]
- Centimeters: 50.80 x 64.45 [Image]
- Product ID: 308483
The First-Ever Issue of California's Development Board Map
This meticulously detailed map, published by the California Development Board in 1910, presents a detailed geographical, topographical, and railroad overview of California. The map vividly details the state’s varied terrain, major rivers, mountain ranges, and valleys, with distinctive shading that highlights elevation changes and desert regions. It features a dense and intricate network of railroad lines traversing the state, connecting key cities and towns, and illustrating California’s early 20th-century transportation infrastructure.
Inset in the upper right corner is a summary of the state's chief horticultural, agricultural, and mineral products, organized by county, reflecting California’s economic diversity during this era. The map also includes a smaller outline map indicating California’s area in comparison to several eastern states. Coastal features, significant urban centers like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, and several water bodies are clearly labeled, providing a comprehensive snapshot of California’s geography and development at the start of the 20th century.
This edition marked the Board’s initial release of the detailed geographical, topographical, and railroad map designed to promote California’s resources and attract new residents and investment. Subsequent versions were published in following years with updated information, but the 1910 map represents the original issue.
Background on Creator
The California Development Board, established in 1910 through the merger of three key organizations, aimed to promote economic growth in California by encouraging immigration, supporting local products, and distributing information about the state's resources and opportunities. It published detailed maps and reports highlighting California’s agricultural, industrial, and railroad infrastructure, organized promotional campaigns to attract residents and investors, and played an important role in shaping the state’s public image and economic development during the early 20th century.
Condition
Clean and well-preserved, this example exhibits only minor creasing at the upper edge. It was originally issued folding on thin, banknote-style paper.