1878 Bien and Johnson Map of New York City (Manhattan Island) During the Revolutionary War
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Description: An unusual map of Manhattan Island will adjacent parts of Long Island and New Jersey drawn in 1878 for issue in Henry P. Johnson's history of the Battle of Long Island. In compiling his history Johnson was frustrated by the lack of a Revolutionary War period map detailing the entire Island of Manhattan. He thus compiled this map which he published with Julius Bien and incorporated into his book. Though quite late compared to colonial period information it presents, this map is significant in that it is possibly the first map to show the whole of Manhattan Island during the Revolutionary War. Cartographically it is based upon the work of Ratzer and Montressor with regard to the southern part of the Island as far north as 50th street. North of 50th street in incorporates data from the Commissioners plan of 1811 and from Sauthier's map of New York. Beyond the developed southern portions of the city that extend north only as far as modern day Canal Street the city is laid out topographically, with hills, river courses, and plains apparent. Bloomingdale Road (modern day Broadway) is identified as is the Kings Bridge or Post Road. Shows various fortifications throughout as well as military notations regarding the placement of British and American troops. Though fiercely fought the British ultimately won the Battle of Long Island and the Battle of Harlem Heights, thus seizing control of New York City, which they maintained until the end of the Revolutionary War.
Date: 1878 (undated)
Source: Johnson, H. P., The Campaign of 1776 around New York and Brooklyn
Cartographer: Joseph R. Bien was a topographer and an engineer working the later part of the 19th century. His name appears a number of state and regional atlases, including the important 1895 Atlas of New York. Most of Joseph Bien's work was published in conjunction with the New York Lithographing, Engraving & Printing Company, which was founded by Julius Bien. Joseph was almost certainly related to Julien, though whether he was a son, cousin, or brother, remains unknown. Click here for a list of rare maps from Joseph R. Bien.
Size: Printed area measures 35 x 14.5 inches (88.9 x 36.83 centimeters)
Condition: Very good. This map was removed from its original binding and archivally backed with linen by a previous owner.
Code: NewYorkCity-johnsonbien-1878 (Necessary for phone inquiries: 646-320-8650)
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