Attractive manuscript map of the United States extending west to the Rockies, drawn by 8-year-old Harriet Osborn in July 1830. Executed in pen and ink with watercolor on paper, the map exemplifies a form of didactic cartography that flourished in the first half of the 19th century. The map's creator was likely Harriet Newell Osborn (1823-1871), born in Columbia County, New York, who later lived briefly in Michigan before returning to New York. The map was probably created in Cairo, New York, (as opposed to any of the other Cairos in the United States) as the instructress Louisa Prout (born circa 1810) is recorded in the 1850 U.S. Census as residing there.
The map depicts the eastern United States from the Atlantic to the Missouri Territory, showing state and territory boundaries, major rivers, and the Great Lakes. Many small and forgotten towns dot the map, indicating a far different urban configuration than what we know today. The Gulf Coast and parts of Lower Canada are also included.
Characteristic of the genre, the map displays folk art elements. A floral wreath in the lower right corner contains the title "Map of the United States," while simple ship illustrations appear in the Atlantic Ocean.
This is significant as an example of female education in the early republic, demonstrating the advanced skills taught to girls from affluent families. It also captures the United States during a period of westward expansion.
Juvenile cartography of this nature has gained increasing attention and appreciation among collectors and scholars over the last decade, highlighting its importance in understanding 19th-century American education and geographical knowledge.