Scarce Floridiana: hand drawn circa 1840 surveying map of island in Apalachicola River

Collectibles : Folk Art : Americana : Early Floridiana

 

For the collector of items relating the history of the state of Florida, here is an unusual opportunity to acquire a hand drawn survey map of Forbes Island in the Apalachicola River in the Panhandle region of North Florida. The sheet measures 14 1/2" by 18 1/2" inside the gray modern mat, (overall measurements with frame 22" by 25 1/2"). There is a wealth of detail, with individual cypress trees, "high bank" and "low bank", and numerous sloughs and creeks noted, The title at right is "Land District West Territory of Florida". The description goes on to say this claim is in the name of John Forbes. Most certainly it would be easy to research this gentleman and the role he played in Florida history. The date of execution seems to be late 1839, as it mentions that this survey of the 9,811 acres was made in the "third quarter of 1839". This would be around the time of the Seminole Wars. Condition is excellent considering the age, at first appearance, though upon closer examination one can see a carefully minimized tear that runs vertically up the middle, much of it hidden in the left-most column of figures. The tear is irregular but it does extend nearly from top to bottom. Again, it is not obvious to the casual observer. There is a small reddish stain at top as well, and a smaller tear. None of this significantly detracts from the rarity and desirability of such an historical item. Ideal for your legal office in Tallahassee or Pensacola! SEE HUNDREDS OF OTHER WORKS NOW IN MY RUBY LANE SHOP.

Item ID: JB0763