New York - Nice example of SDUK's city plan of New York.

SDUK

Publication Date: 1852

About this Item

This map of New York was first issued by the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge in 1840. This version shows little difference, other than the new publishing firm of Charles Knight, despite the tremendous growth experienced by the city in the intervening twelve years. Focusing on Lower Manhattan Island from the Battery to 41st street, the image includes Governor's Island, Brooklyn, Williamsburg and Jersey City. The area's density can be imagined from the city blocks crammed with buildings; engraved profiles of two can be found in either lower corner of the sheet. Streets, public squares, ferry routes, and fortifications are all individually labeled, while 40 of the most prominent public buildings are also numbered and identified. The Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge was an organization that operated between 1826 and 1848 which focused on the publication and distribution of inexpensive learning material for the general public. It was thought that the ability to self-educate in the lower and middle classes would contribute to public order and advance the high minded ideals of Western science and civilization. The maps the organization produced are some of the most detailed, practical, and accessible maps of the mid-19th century. They were initially published in pairs and sold by subscription, but in the waning years the S.D.U.K. compiled several extraordinary atlases which were published even after it closed it's doors. This example came from one such atlas published by the firm of Charles Knight in London. Sheet Width (in) 17 Sheet Height (in) 14.2 Condition Description The sheet is in excellent condition, but is soiled in a few places. Minor discoloration along the outer edges. Seller Inventory # 584

Bibliographic Details

Title: New York - Nice example of SDUK's city plan ...

Publication Date: 1852

Condition: Very Good