1892 Walker Railroad Commission Map of Massachusetts

An uncommon and striking 1892 3-color chromolithograph map of Massachusetts illustrating railroad development throughout the state. The map covers the entire state, with 17 different railroad company routes defined using a combination of color and pattern coding. A large inset in the upper right details the dense greater Boston metropolitan area. The map offers additional coverage to the Hudson Valley and southwest to New York City, illustrating important commercial and passenger connections. The finely engraved title block, appearing in the lower right, stands out for its masterful execution.

Chromolithography

Chromolithography is a color lithographic technique developed in the mid-19th century. The process involved using multiple lithographic stones, one for each color, to yield a rich composite effect. Oftentimes, the process would start with a black basecoat upon which subsequent colors were layered. Some chromolithographs used 30 or more separate lithographic stones to achieve the desired effect. Chromolithograph color could also be effectively 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 produced made it exceptionally effective for advertising and propaganda imagery.

Publication History and Census

This map was engraved by George Walker and printed by Wright and Potter, both of Boston, for issue in the 1892 Report of The Railroad Commissioners. The map is scarce despite being issued in various editions over several years. The earliest edition we have been able to find is 1891, and the latest 1909. The map is well represented institutionally in various states, but we have not found another 1892 example.