Atlas Illustrating Report of March 20, 1909, of Board on Examination and Survey of Mississippi River - Reshaping the course of the Mississippi River in the early 20th century.

Board on Examination and Survey of Mississippi River

Publication Date: 1909

About this Item

"The 20th century saw dramatic changes to the course of the Mississippi River, from its headwaters in Lake Itasca, MN to the massive mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. According to the National Park Service, "Between 1907 and 1963 most semblances of the natural river would disappear. A series of new locks and dams would reshape the river s physical and ecological character." This atlas, focusing primarily on the course of the river between St. Louis, MO and Cairo, IL, reflects some of those earliest efforts to improve the navigability of the vitally important waterway. In 1907, Congress authorized the dredging of a six-foot channel in the Upper Mississippi, along with several related canal and slackwater management systems. These projects, along with others, are highlighted within the 52 different lithographed plates contained within the volume. Apart from detailed maps of the river prepared by members of the Army Corps of Engineers, an interesting selection of hydrographs, cross-sections, and other informational diagrams are included. Published in Washington, D.C. by the Government Printing Office in 1909. Well-represented in institutional collections, but uncommon on the market. Source: National Park Service. ; OCLC# 40723110." Sheet Width (in) 19.75 Sheet Height (in) 24.9 Condition Description 52 maps, many of which are double page, bound in original buckram cloth boards that show moderate soiling, scuffed corners, and other signs of wear. Ex-Libris, with old stamp and writing on the endpapers. Torn flypaper, but otherwise contents are very good. Minor offsetting, a handful of scattered spots, and some toned edges consistent with age.

Seller Inventory # 6120

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Atlas Illustrating Report of March 20, 1909, of Board on Examination and Survey of Mississippi River - Reshaping the course of the Mississippi River in the early 20th century.
• Publication Date: 1909
• Condition: Fine