1902 F. W. Falls Chromolithograph View of Long Island, New York

This is a dramatic 1902 F. W. Fells chromolithograph panoramic view of Long Island, New York. The stunning view was issued to promote the Long Island Railroad and Long Island in general, at the time undergoing an explosion of development and economic growth.

A Closer Look

The view looks north on Long Island from a highpoint over the Atlantic. New York City and adjacent parts of New Jersey appear at left, while at right, the map extends eastward to include Block Island. In the background, along the horizon, is the Long Island Sound and Connecticut coast. The extensive network of the Long Island Railroad extends from Long Island City and Brooklyn eastward to Greenport and Montauk, with stops in-between noted. The map employs rich chromolithographic color to illustrate Long Island topography, as well as zones of development. The Montauk Lighthouse, at the far east, is recognizable. Over it all, a dramatic cloudy sky looms.

Long Island Railroad

In 1902, the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) was undergoing a period of expansion and modernization, positioning itself as a critical transportation network for Long Island and a vital link to New York City. Founded in 1834, the LIRR became part of the Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR) system in 1900, a move that brought new investment and infrastructure improvements. Under PRR control, ambitious projects began to unfold, including the planning of the East River Tunnels and Pennsylvania Station, which would ultimately connect Long Island directly to Manhattan by rail. The railroad was also adapting to technological advances, transitioning from steam to electrification on key commuter lines, which enhanced efficiency and passenger convenience. The LIRR, more than any other agency, facilitated the growth of suburban Long Island.

Chromolithography

Chromolithography, sometimes called oleography, is a color lithographic technique developed in the mid-19th century. The process uses multiple lithographic stones, one for each color, to yield a rich composite effect. Generally, a chromolithograph begins with a black basecoat upon which subsequent colors are layered. Some chromolithographs used 30 or more separate lithographic stones to achieve the desired effect. Chromolithograph color can be blended for even more dramatic results. The process became extremely popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when it emerged as the dominant method of color printing. The vivid color chromolithography made it exceptionally effective for advertising and propaganda.

Publication History and Census

This view was drawn by Frederick W. Falls and published in 1902 by the Long Island Railroad. Rare. We see just two examples of this view in private hands and none in institutional collections.