THE OFFICIAL STATE ATLAS OF KANSAS: Compiled from Government Surveys, County Records and Personal Investigations

Philadelphia: L. H. Everts & Co, 1887. First Edition. Hardcover. Collectible Very Good. 1st printing. Huge quarto original one-half cloth & leather. 339pps. This is a fabulous volume. Here is what William Reese (Six Score #83) said of it in his bibliography of 150 best ranching books: "These atlases were designed so that pages could be tipped in. I doubt that any two copies are exactly alike. Pagination through page 340 (this copy 339 with verso blank), although there are many unnumbered pages of views. There are over 300 colored maps, views depicting over 350 scenes, and as many as 25 folding tissue maps interleave, as well as unpaginated text. 44.5 x 38 cm." (15" x 18"). Reese continues: "This massive compilation contains a vast wealth of information on Kansas at the time of publication. Many of the views depict stock ranches, which are also located on the extremely detailed maps. There are many bird's-eye views of towns and sights. Much of the accompanying text is devoted to listing the leading citizens of the state, their property, what kind of livestock they raise, and even what kind of fencing they use. The Everts' atlas is an important source for much information, with illustrations existing nowhere else. A similar atlas was issued for Nebraska by the same firm. The numerous state and county atlases of the late nineteenth century, usually sold by subscription, often contain the best illustrations and maps available." I have fully collated this copy and found something unusual, although a map and atlas dealer will likely say it is normative. There are theoretically 339 maps (some fine thin paper foldout maps, some on one page, and some multiple to a page) but when I discovered four missing maps by number, I also discovered they are not listed in the index to begin with. So this is a qualified "all maps present." This in very good condition with the covers worn at all extremities, but hinges and joints sound. A number of leaves have old tape on various locations of the edges fixing short tears in place. I did not find this a serious compromise to the condition of the pages or the book overall as they were place conservatively and carefully. This is the only copy I have offered for sale in nearly 34 years of selling books on the Old West. This is a very heavy volume and will be shipped at cost, above the default shipping price. Insurance will be added.