Antique Map of Wisconsin The Badger State with Railroads and Counties, 1888

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Antique Map of Wisconsin – The Badger State with Railroads & Counties, 1888 This antique engraved map of Wisconsin, published … Read more Antique Map of Wisconsin – The Badger State with Railroads & Counties, 1888 This antique engraved map of Wisconsin, published in 1888 by Rand, McNally & Co. in Chicago for their Improved Indexed Business Atlas and Shippers Guide, presents a detailed overview of the “Badger State” in the late 19th century. It shows the state’s counties, towns, and extensive railroad system at a time when Wisconsin’s economy was thriving through lumber, dairy farming, brewing, and industry. Railroads are prominently engraved in red and blue, illustrating the dense network that crisscrossed the state by 1888. Major lines include the Chicago & North Western, Milwaukee & St. Paul, Wisconsin Central, and Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul systems, all converging on Milwaukee and Madison before extending outward to smaller towns and agricultural centers. These lines also connected Wisconsin to Chicago, the economic capital of the Midwest, and to Minneapolis–St. Paul to the west. Counties are clearly marked, including Milwaukee, Dane, Brown, La Crosse, Winnebago, Rock, and Marathon. Cities such as Milwaukee, Madison (the state capital), Green Bay, La Crosse, and Oshkosh are shown as major hubs. Smaller towns and township divisions are also included, reflecting the density of settlement and the importance of local connections in a state where farming and industry were closely tied. Geographic features are well represented. Lake Michigan dominates the eastern border, with Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha as key ports. The Mississippi River defines the western edge, linking La Crosse and Prairie du Chien to river trade. Numerous lakes and rivers, including Lake Winnebago and the Wisconsin and Fox Rivers, are also carefully noted. Northern Wisconsin is shown with its forests and fewer towns, reflecting its role as the state’s lumber frontier in the late 19th century. Historically, this map captures Wisconsin in the Gilded Age, when Milwaukee was emerging as a brewing powerhouse, Madison was growing as the state capital and university town, and the state’s railroads and waterways connected its agricultural and industrial products to national markets. Known as “The Badger State,” Wisconsin earned its nickname from early miners who dug shelters into hillsides, much like badgers, during the lead mining boom of the 1820s and 1830s. By 1888, the name had become synonymous with the hardworking spirit of the state. Condition summary: Very good condition overall. Mild toning consistent with age, some faint foxing in margins, and original center fold as issued. Paper remains strong with crisp engraved detail. No major tears or repairs. Framing tips: A walnut or oak frame will highlight the antique character, while a black frame with ivory matting provides a sharper modern presentation. A double mat in ivory with a muted green or blue accent would reflect Wisconsin’s lakes and forests. Technique: Engraving Maker: Rand, McNally & Co., Chicago, 1888 See less