Sanborn Map of Sing Sing for the exclusive use of F.J. Washburn. Agent N.Y. Nov 1897.
New York: Sanborn-Perris Map Co., 1897. Third edition with additions. Hardcover. Folio, published in November 1897 with 18 hand colored maps, including a title page on the key map. This is the third edition of the atlas according to the Library of Congress Census, the first edition being published in 1886 but with only 13 sheets. The second edition was published in 1891 with an extra 2 sheet making a total of 16 sheets. Small private library stamp on the verso of the key map. There are very small pencil annotations on the maps obviously by F.J. Washburn the local insurance agent. Originating in London in the mid 18th century insurance maps had become invaluable in the US in the 1860's when Sanborn started work. The company started to standardize the maps and publish them in atlases under the town or city. Each map/sheet measures 21 x 25" and is drawn to a scale of 50 feet to an inch, with color applied by hand at the time of publication. Every atlas records all town buildings shown to scale, its construction material and use noted, as well as fire-proofing, thickness of walls, elevators, chimneys, fire alarm boxes, hydrants, sprinkler systems and a wealth of other detail. Ultimately Sanborn produced maps and atlases for 12,000 locations. Being so specific, the demand was very slight. The Library of Congress estimates that there were usually fewer than twenty orders for a single sheet so production was small and usually produced for a specific Insurance company or agent. Because of this, a very small number of copies of any atlas are offered on the market today. The maxim "if it turns up buy it because you won't find another copy" springs to mind. Maroon leather spine with printed hard boards, rubbed but edges but very good condition. Item #15960
Price: $2,750.00