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This detailed 1862 map, created by Samuel Augustus Mitchell Jr., provides an intricate depiction of the states of Kentucky and Tennessee during the mid-19th century. Mitchell's maps are renowned for their clarity, accuracy, and aesthetic appeal, and this county map is a fine example of his cartographic expertise.
The map is hand-colored, with each county in both Kentucky and Tennessee delineated in distinct pastel shades of pink, yellow, green, and blue. This coloring enhances the readability of the map, clearly demarcating county boundaries and allowing for easy identification of regions. Major cities, towns, and geographical features such as rivers and mountain ranges are prominently labeled, providing a comprehensive overview of the area.
The northern boundary of Kentucky is defined by the Ohio River, while Tennessee's southern border aligns with Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. The map highlights key transportation routes of the period, including major roads and railways, reflecting the infrastructure development during the Civil War era.
Surrounding the map is an ornate floral border, characteristic of Mitchell's distinctive style.
Samuel Augustus Mitchell Jr., following in the footsteps of his father, continued the family tradition of high-quality cartography. His work is distinguished by its attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, making his maps indispensable tools for both historical and contemporary studies.
Samuel Augustus Mitchell Jr. inherited the Mitchell Company from his father in 1860. For over thirty years, the company had specialized in the production of school atlases and wall maps of America. They were one of the pioneers on engraving on steel plates. In 1860, Samuel Jr. released the New General Atlas, which had been compiled in house and replaced a previous atlas by Tanner. The elder Mitchell died in 1868 and Samuel Jr. continued the business until the 1890s. At its height, the Mitchell Company employed 250 people and sold 400,000 publications annually.
