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Description

First Regional Geological Map of California & Nevada

Rare Geological & Mining Map of Northern California & Western Nevada (Virginia City)

Highly detailed map of Northern California and Western Nevada, colored by Metallurgical regions.

This remarkable map is the first geological map and is a significant step forward in evaluating the geology of the mining regions of California and Nevada.  While several earlier maps (most notably from the Pacific Railroad Survey series) offer some geological information and color coding, Guillemin-Tarayre's map stands alone for its precision and details, with ten different geological regions are noted.

Guillemin-Tarayre's map is part of a rare set of scientific works published by the French government. The map illustrated a section which relates to geology and mining in California and Nevada. In 1864, as a result of a French military expedition to Mexico, the Commission Scientifique du Mexique was established. At the time, mining in California and Nevada were the focal point of a great deal of interest in Europe.

The map drew upon the work of Dr. John B. Trask, with whom the French commissioners exchanged information. In 1853, the California Legislature passed a joint resolution asking Dr. John B. Trask for geological information about the state. He was unofficially appointed State Geologist and was provided with a budget of $2,000. He submitted four geological reports which were highly valued by the Legislature, including, “On the Geology of the Sierra Nevada, or California Range”. In 1860 the Legislature passed an act establishing the State’s first official Geological Survey of California and, “to create the Office of the State Geologist, and to define the duties thereof.”  

The map is one of the earliest printed maps to illustrate the geology of California.  

Rarity

The map is very rare. This is the second separate example we have ever seen on the market.