Important early map of the Yosemite Valley, first prepared during the Wheeler Surveys.
The present map was originally produced during Captain G.M. Wheeler's Expeditions of 1877-79 for the US. Geographic Surveys West of the 100th Meridian.
This remarkable map of Yosemite depicts the park boundaries and the "toll roads" leading to the park. It also locates early camp facilities, trails, and Indian settlements. The skillful rendering of the topography has created a remarkable strong graphic image of this picturesque valley. Mountain drawings by J.E. Weyss, lettering by M. Franke, from the topographical plat by Lt. Macomb, Nov. 30, 1883. The map includes Post Office, Indian Campsites, Cabins, Orchards, Cemetery, Saw Mill, Chapel, Bridges and many other details. Over 100 different places located, including the earliest hotels in the valley and vicinity. Lots of peaks, valleys and elevations included. Several early trails are noted, some of which are still unsurveyed.
The present edition was re-issued in 1893. The Secretary of the Interior had been charged with investigating conditions in the valley as it was run by the State. The Secretary was particularly concerned about the monopolization of transportation to and within the Yosemite Grant. This particular version of the Wheeler Yosemite Valley map was printed in January 1893 as part of 52d Congress, 2d session, Senate Executive Document 22 (ordered to be printed January 5, 1893), with the Wheeler map overprinted with the Grant Boundary and private roads into it.
This edition of the map can be distinguished from the 1883 map not only by the overprint on it but also by the "S Ex 22 52 2" in the lower right hand corner.