Description
Railroad Map of Washington Poster, 1917 – Public Service Commission
A detailed 1917 railroad map of Washington poster issued by the Public Service Commission, documenting the state’s rail infrastructure at a pivotal moment in its industrial expansion.
Overview
This original lithographic map presents Washington State through the lens of its early 20th-century rail network, tracing the arteries of commerce that connected coastal ports, inland cities, and resource regions. Produced in 1917, it reflects both the administrative precision of state oversight and the practical demands of transportation planning during a period of rapid growth.
Visual Composition
The composition is structured with fine, densely printed linework, where rail routes are articulated in red against a subdued topographic base. Rivers, mountain ranges, and county boundaries are rendered with delicate tonal variation, creating a layered geographic reading. The network radiates outward from key hubs, with an intricate web of branch lines extending into less populated terrain, giving the map a rhythmic, almost vascular quality.
Context & Provenance
Issued by the Washington Public Service Commission, this map served as an official reference for regulatory and infrastructural oversight. Examples are held in institutional collections, including Washington State University, underscoring its archival significance as both a governmental document and a historical artifact of regional development.
Condition
Archival linen-backed for stability and presentation. Original fold lines have been professionally restored. Scattered age spotting remains visible within the map field, consistent with its age and use.
Specifications
Date: 1917
Origin: United States
Medium: Original lithograph
Backing: Archival linen-backed
Format: Horizontal map
Authenticity
Original lithographic railroad map of Washington issued in 1917; not a reproduction.
Framing
Linen backing allows for immediate framing. Suitable for float mounting or traditional mat presentation to emphasize the full sheet.
Purchase & Shipping
Ships flat and securely packaged to preserve the integrity of the linen backing and printed surface.
Collector Notes
Railroad maps from this period offer a precise intersection of cartography and industrial history. This example stands out for its clarity of network detail and its official origin, making it particularly relevant for collectors of Pacific Northwest material or early transportation history.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.