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Description

Karte von Hawaii mit Benutzung der Daten von F. Birgham is a scarce and detailed map of the Big Island of Hawaii published in 1876 by Augustus Herman Petermann. Notably, this map traces the significant volcanic eruptions of Mauna Loa and Kilauea in 1823, supplemented by topographical details, coastal place names, missions, harbors, trails, and the boundaries of the 1823 lava flows. The inclusion of profile drawings of the two volcanoes enriches the cartographic narrative.

During the 19th century, Hawaii was a region of significant interest to Western explorers, missionaries, and traders. In particular, the volcanic activity of the island chain was of great scientific curiosity, inspiring numerous studies. The eruptions of Mauna Loa and Kilauea in 1823 marked a major event in the geological history of Hawaii, and this map captures the aftermath of these eruptions, serving as an important document of geological and volcanic studies of the time.

Augustus Herman Petermann, a renowned German cartographer, played an instrumental role in the development of cartography during the 19th century. His meticulous approach towards topographical details and inclusion of the latest scientific data in his maps sets his work apart. The Karte von Hawaii mit Benutzung der Daten von F. Birgham, in particular, showcases his commitment to the science of cartography and his ambition to document significant geological phenomena.

This map presents not only an intricate illustration of Hawaii's geographical features but also a unique depiction of one of the most significant volcanic activities in the island's history. As such, it is an invaluable artifact for those studying the geological and environmental history of Hawaii. The combination of its historical context, its link to the influential work of Augustus Petermann, and the detailed depiction of a significant geological event render this map an essential resource for scholars and enthusiasts of cartography, volcanology, and Pacific history.

Augustus Herman Petermann Biography

August Heinrich Petermann (1822-1878) is a renowned German cartographer of the nineteenth century. Petermann studied cartography at the Geographical Art-School in Potsdam before traveling to Edinburgh to work with Dr. A. Keith Johnston on an English edition of Berghaus’ Physical Atlas. Two years later he moved to London, where he made maps and advised exploratory expeditions as they set off to explore the interior of Africa and the Arctic.

In 1854, Petermann returned to Germany to be Director of the Geographical Institute of Justus Perthes in Gotha. There, he was the editor of the Geographische Mittheilungen and Stieler’s Handatlas. The Royal Geographical Society of London awarded him their Gold Medal in 1860. He continued his interest in exploration in Germany, fundraising for the German Exploring Expeditions of 1868 and 1869-70, which sought an open Arctic sea. Tragically, he committed suicide in 1878.