1866 "Ensign & Bridgman's Rail Road Map of the United States, showing Depots & Stations"

Presented is an 1866 issue of “Ensign & Bridgeman’s Rail Road Map of the United States, showing Depots & Stations.” First published in 1856, this is the third edition, following another issued in 1859. It is an expansive and impressive 19th century map depicting the eastern half of the United States, just after the end of the Civil War. Starting on the eastern coast, the map extends to the western borders of Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, and Louisiana. As alluded to in its title, the map highlights existing railroads and railroad depots, as well as proposed lines. State boundaries, county boundaries, cities, and major towns are all labeled, along with some rivers and larger lakes. At the bottom of the map is an inset map “Plan of the New England States.” A decorative title block includes a railroad racing a steam boat, topped with a large spread wing eagle.  The whole is enclosed within a wide ornamental border. The map captures the burgeoning American railway infrastruc