1855 "New-York City & County Map with Vicinity entire Brooklyn Wiliamsburgh Jersey City &c." Map by Charles Magnus
This is a beautiful hand-colored map titled “New York City & County Map with Vicinity entire Brooklyn, Williamsburgh, Jersey City &c.” The work was published in 1855 by Charles Magnus and is presented in a wooden archival frame. Published by one of the best known and most prosperous printers in the mid to late 19th century, this map is wonderfully detailed. Turned clockwise so that cardinal west is at the top of the map, this is an unusual and attractive depiction of the city. The map shows the entirety of Manhattan as well as nearby neighborhoods. The map lends special attention to individual streets, blocks, parks and even important buildings. Magnus shows important ferry crossings, canals, and railroads as well with steamships navigating the Hudson River. Centered on Manhattan, the map identifies additional districts including Manhattanville, Yorkville, and Harlem. Several areas have changed since the 1855 map was completed and some of the planned landfill is visible around