This rare Merrill Lynch pictorial map of Manhattan was issued as a promotional piece for the company in the early 1970s. The map is focused on the area around Wall Street and lower Broadway, highlighting significant landmarks within this financial district. The reverse side of the map features an informative narrative, titled “Walking with History on Broadway,” which takes the reader on a journey through key historical events and locations along Broadway, with illustrations capturing figures like Lafayette and landmarks like Trinity Church.
The map itself is artistically rendered, with charming and somewhat whimsical illustrations that evoke the historical importance of the district. Key streets and buildings are labeled, including Battery Park, Castle Clinton, and various historic locations that played a role in the development of New York City's financial and cultural identity. Notably, the map emphasizes the headquarters of Merrill Lynch at One Liberty Plaza, illustrating the company’s physical and symbolic presence in the area.
The reverse side adds depth with its historical narrative, providing a walking tour that covers various epochs in New York’s history, from its colonial past to the industrial age, illustrating Broadway’s evolution into a global symbol of commerce. The combination of text and illustration creates a seamless blend of history and corporate branding, with Merrill Lynch positioning itself as not just part of New York’s financial fabric, but as a custodian of its storied past.
The map and accompanying text present a detailed look at lower Manhattan’s architectural and historical landscape, while subtly promoting Merrill Lynch’s identity within this iconic district. Its engaging layout and informative content make it an interesting collectible for those intrigued by the intersection of corporate history and urban development.