Washington Oregon Idaho Map – Johnson, Hand-Colored, c.1864

About this sheet

Johnson’s Washington Oregon Idaho Map, USA c.1864 – Hand-Colored

This is a finely engraved and hand-colored map titled Johnson’s Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, published by Johnson and Ward in New York circa 1864. It shows the northwestern United States with Washington Territory, Oregon, and the newly established Idaho Territory outlined and colored in pastel pink and green.

The map details counties, cities, towns, rivers, mountain ranges, and early transportation routes. Notable cities include Portland, Salem, Olympia, Lewiston, and Boise. The depiction of Idaho Territory is of particular historical interest as it was created in 1863, and the map reflects its earliest boundaries before later divisions created Montana and Wyoming territories.

Johnson’s distinctive decorative border frames the map with interlaced geometric and floral motifs. As leading American atlas publishers in the mid-19th century, Johnson and Ward combined cartographic accuracy with decorative presentation. Their maps of western territories are highly collectible for documenting early settlement, territorial changes, and the expansion of the United States into the Pacific Northwest.

Condition report:

Fair condition. Strong impression with bright original hand coloring. General age toning and minor marginal spots or handling marks typical for antique atlas maps. Small tape residue in upper left margin outside printed area as well as some tears in the borders. Wide margins and plate mark intact.

Framing suggestion:

Frame with a simple dark wood or black frame and an archival off-white or cream mat to highlight the pastel coloring and decorative border. Use UV-protective glass to preserve paper quality and prevent fading.