Detailed color map of New York City: "Map of the County of New York Showing the Enumeration Districts of the Census of 1865."
This document is part of a larger work titled Statistics of Population of the City and County of New York as Shown by the State Census of 1865, prepared by Franklin B. Hough at the request of the Committee on Annual Taxes of the Board of Supervisors. The document is identified as Document No. 13 and was published on August 15, 1866, by The New York Printing Company, Printers for the County. Sabin lists report only (without mention of the map), describing it has having 81 pages.
The map provides a detailed visual representation of the enumeration districts in the County of New York as they were delineated for the state census of 1865. The map covers the entirety of Manhattan, extending from the southern tip of the island up to the northern areas, with inset map showing Harlem, Yorkville, and Manhattanville. The boundaries of the enumeration districts are clearly marked and color-coded, providing an easily interpretable distinction between different areas.
Key Features:
- District Boundaries: Each enumeration district is delineated with distinct lines and shaded in various colors (pink, green, and white), which likely correspond to different statistical categories or population data.
- Street Grid and Infrastructure: The map meticulously details the street grid of Manhattan, indicating major streets, avenues, and public spaces. This level of detail highlights the urban development and density of the city during this period.
- Water Bodies: The map includes depictions of the surrounding water bodies, such as the Hudson River, East River, and the North River, crucial for understanding the geographical context and infrastructure of the city.
- Population Data: Numbers within each district boundary appear to represent population counts or other relevant census data, offering insights into the demographic distribution across the city.
The 1865 New York State Census was conducted during a transformative period in American history, shortly after the end of the Civil War. New York City, being the nation's largest city and a pivotal economic hub, experienced significant demographic shifts, including an influx of immigrants and changes in the labor force.
This map serves as a vital historical document, providing a snapshot of the city's population distribution and urban landscape during the mid-19th century. It reflects the city's rapid growth and the administrative need to manage and understand its expanding population. The detailed enumeration of districts underscores the city's complexity and the necessity for organized governance and planning.
The publication of this map, along with accompanying statistical data, aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the city's demographic landscape for the use of local officials and the public. By comparing the 1865 data with previous censuses, the document offered valuable insights into population trends, economic conditions, and social changes.
An excellent mid-19th-century map showing most of Manhattan and a crucial record shedding light on the demographic and urban structure of New York City during a pivotal period. Prepared by Franklin B. Hough and published in 1866, it highlights the intricate planning and administrative efforts to manage a rapidly growing metropolis.
Rarity
The map and pamphlet are very rare on the market.
This is the first example we have seen.