Map of the Basin of the Mississippi.

William Gilpin was a land speculator, promotor, and later, the governor of Colorado. He was an eloquent booster of western settlement, but he also originated a concept that was foundational to economic geography. This map of the US focuses on the watershed regions of the country, dividing it into regions, and in doing so shows the great potential of the West. Here divided into territories, this hand colored map shows the "Region of the Gold Fields" in Utah and New Mexico, just at the edge of the Kansas Territory. Shows the "Geographical Center" of the nation, where Gilpin saw the future balance of the population to live, (also near to where he owned land). A rare map with a innovative look at the nation.

Condition is very good. Image size is approximately 8 x 12.75 (inches)