COLTON, Joseph Hutchins (1800 - 1893).
The Western Tourist and Emigrant's Guide through the States of Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin, and the territories of Minesota, Missouri, and Nebraska.
Engraved map with original hand color in full.
New York: J.H. Colton and Company, 1854.

Provenance: early pencil trials to endpapers. 12mo., (6" x 3 3/4"). One-page publisher's advertisement at beginning, publisher's catalogue at end (spotting and browned throughout). Large folding engraved map after J. Calvin Smith (some browning and short separations at folds). Original lilac cloth, gilt (faded, worn).

First published in 1839. "The great region of the North and West, comprehended in the states of Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin, and the territories of Minesota, Missouri, and Nebraska, is daily becoming more and more important and interesting. Its vast resources are in a state of rapid development. Industry and enterprise, aided by enlightened legislation, are calling forth its energies; and the prophetic declaration, that "westward the star of empire takes its way," is advancing to fulfillment. A few years ago this region, then denominated the "far west", was regarded as the outskirts of civilization it is now (at least the greater portion of it) the residence of an active, vigorous, and intelligent population. The steamboat, railroad car, and telegraph have become its great movers. Cities have sprung up in the wilderness as if by the will of the magician; agriculture, manufactures, and commerce flourish; literature, science, and the arts are extending their healthful and invigorating influence throughout the country. Blessed with a soil unsurpassed in fertility, and a salubrious climate; and possessing, by means of its great rivers and lakes, advantages for trade and commerce, it enjoys all the influences that can render a country prosperous and a people happy" (Publisher's Advertisement).BCI-1-5-34