Antique Map of Kentucky & Tennessee The Bluegrass & Volunteer States, 1888

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Antique Map of Kentucky & Tennessee – The Bluegrass & Volunteer States, 1888 This antique engraved map of Kentucky and … Read more Antique Map of Kentucky & Tennessee – The Bluegrass & Volunteer States, 1888 This antique engraved map of Kentucky and Tennessee, published in 1888 by Rand, McNally & Co. in Chicago for their Improved Indexed Business Atlas and Shippers Guide, provides a highly detailed view of two historically important Southern states in the late 19th century. It shows counties, towns, and an extensive network of railroads, capturing a period when rail transportation was rapidly transforming the economy and society of the post-Civil War South. The Kentucky section, titled “New County and Railroad Map of Kentucky,” highlights the state’s counties, with Louisville, Lexington, Covington, and Frankfort (the state capital) standing out as major centers. Known as “The Bluegrass State,” Kentucky was already famous for its fertile farmland, thoroughbred horse breeding, and bourbon whiskey industry. The map shows dense railroad coverage, including the Louisville & Nashville Railroad, which connected Kentucky to major markets in the Midwest and South. The Tennessee portion, titled “County and Railroad Map of Tennessee,” provides similar detail. Counties such as Shelby, Davidson, Knox, and Hamilton are clearly marked, along with the major cities of Memphis, Nashville (the state capital), Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Known as “The Volunteer State,” Tennessee played a critical role in American history, from its frontier heritage to its importance during the Civil War. By 1888, Tennessee’s economy was diversifying, with Memphis as a cotton trading hub, Nashville as a growing cultural and commercial center, and Chattanooga as a key industrial city connected to the railroads. The map’s railroad detail is especially significant, with red and blue lines denoting passenger and freight routes. These include the Louisville & Nashville, the Cincinnati Southern, and the Memphis & Charleston Railroads, which linked Kentucky and Tennessee to surrounding states and national markets. The Appalachian region of eastern Tennessee is also carefully represented, with its rugged terrain and sparser settlement, contrasting with the fertile central and western regions of both states. Historically, this map captures Kentucky and Tennessee in the Reconstruction and Gilded Age period, when both states were rebuilding and modernizing their economies. The precision of Rand McNally’s engraving, showing counties, towns, and railroads in fine detail, makes this a valuable historical artifact as well as a decorative piece. Condition summary: Good condition overall. Mild toning of paper and light foxing at the margins. Original center fold as issued. Strong paper with crisp engraved detail. No major tears or repairs. Framing tips: A walnut or cherry frame complements the Southern character of the map, while a black frame with ivory matting creates a striking modern presentation. A double mat, in ivory with a muted green or blue accent, highlights the dense county and railroad details. Technique: Engraving Maker: Rand, McNally & Co., Chicago, 1888 See less