Old Map of Kentucky by Arrowsmith, 1804: Ohio & Mississippi Rivers, Cumberland Gap, Lexington, Louisville

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of early American history with "Kentucky" by Aaron Arrowsmith & Lewis, crafted in 1804. This exquisite map is a testament to the cartographic brilliance of Aaron Arrowsmith, a revered English mapmaker known for his precision and detail. Arrowsmith's work was instrumental in shaping the understanding of North American geography during a time of rapid expansion and exploration. His collaboration with Lewis brings to life the intricate political and physical landscape of Kentucky as it stood at the dawn of the 19th century.

The map showcases the early political boundaries of Kentucky, offering a glimpse into the past with its depiction of county names and configurations. This detailed political and physical map reflects the burgeoning identity of Kentucky, highlighting the territorial divisions that would eventually evolve into the modern state. The map also captures the complex interactions between settlers and Native American lands, marking the "Indian Boundary Line" and "Indian Lands" that lay south of the Kentucky-Tennessee border.

Arrowsmith & Lewis's map is a visual journey through the natural beauty of Kentucky, with its meticulous rendering of topographical features. The Ohio and Mississippi Rivers flow majestically across the map, while the Cumberland Gap stands as a testament to the rugged terrain that early pioneers navigated. The map's design captures the undulating hills and valleys, offering a window into the physical challenges and natural wonders that characterized the region.

The historical significance of this map extends beyond its geographical details. It serves as one of the earliest obtainable printed maps of Kentucky, providing invaluable insights into the early 19th-century landscape. This map not only charts the physical terrain but also reflects the cultural and political dynamics of the time, offering a unique perspective on the interactions between settlers and Native American communities.

Explore the vibrant towns and cities that dotted Kentucky's landscape, from the bustling streets of Lexington and Louisville to the nascent settlements of Frankfort and Bardstown. Each location is meticulously plotted, capturing the spirit of a region on the brink of transformation. This map is more than a historical document; it is a captivating narrative of exploration, settlement, and the relentless pursuit of new frontiers.

Cities and towns on this map

• Kentucky
• Lexington
• Louisville
• Frankfort
• Bardstown
• Harrodsburg

• Danville

• Tennessee

• Nashville

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Ohio River
• Mississippi River
• Cumberland Gap
• Indian Boundary Line
• Indian Lands
• Salt Springs
• Early county boundaries
• Topographical features (hills and valleys)

Historical and design context

• One of the earliest obtainable printed maps of Kentucky.
• Created by Aaron Arrowsmith & Lewis in 1804.
• Early county names and configurations are shown.
• Depicts "Indian Boundary Line" and "Indian Lands" south of the Kentucky-Tennessee border.
• Detailed political and physical map, typical of early 19th-century cartography.
• Provides insights into early territorial boundaries and interactions with Native American lands.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.