DESCRIPTION: SOLD
A fine intact antique example of Eldridge's very desirable "Chart C" including the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket in Massachusetts. Once relatively plentiful, this splendid lithographed nautical chart by George Washington Eldridge is becoming increasing hard to find for sale.
Copyright by George W. Eldridge, 1912.
A very "user friendly" nautical chart that would have been appreciated by mariners in the early 20th century who lacked today's electronic navigational aids. This large linen-backed chart includes the following ports and towns: Edgartown, Siasconset, Nantucket town, Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, Falmouth, Cotuit, Osterville, Hyannis, West Dennis, Harwich Port, and Chatham.
Shown numerous islands along the coast including Chappaquiddick Island, Cuttyhunk Island, Nashawena Island, Pasque Island, Naushon Island, No Man's Land, Tuckernut Island, Muskeget Island, and Monomoy Beach, now Monomoy Island.
Dotted with interesting comments and observations including:
- "In passing Chatham in thick weather or night time bound to the Northward or Southward make use of the lead and do not go into less than 7 or 8 fathoms of water to avoid the bars that are rapidly extending from the shore and are dangerous."
- "Vessels passing Nobska in either direction displaying signals will be reported by telegraph to the Boston Chamber of Commerce."
- About the Nantucket Head of Harbor entrance: "Strangers should enter this place with caution as it changes with every storm from seaward."
Charles C. Hutchinson 152 State Street Boston General Agent.
George Washington Eldridge (1845-1914)
George Washington Eldridge (1845-1914) was an American cartographer, publisher, and sailor. He was born on October 23, 1845, in Chatham, Massachusetts, United States, and was the son of the famous cartographer and hydrographer George Eldridge (1821-1900). The Eldridges are among the best known private publishers of nautical charts during the 19th century, they published their own charts in competition with the U.S. Coast Survey.
Eldridge grew up in a family of sailors and was trained by his father in cartography and navigation. In 1866, at the age of 21, he started working for his father's chart-making and publishing business, which was based in Chatham. Later, he took over the business and expanded it, adding new products such as sailing guides, tide tables, and nautical almanacs.
Eldridge's most famous publication was the "Eldridge Tide and Pilot Book," which he first published in 1875. The book became an essential resource for sailors and navigators along the East Coast of the United States and remains in publication to this day. He also created charts and maps for the U.S. Navy during the Spanish-American War.
In addition to his work as a cartographer and publisher, Eldridge was an accomplished sailor who participated in several yacht races and regattas. G.W. was also a member of the Boston Yacht Club and served as its commodore from 1898 to 1900. One of Eldridge's most significant accomplishments was the construction of a new clubhouse for the Boston Yacht Club. Eldridge led the effort to raise funds and oversee the construction of the new facility, which was located on the waterfront in Marblehead, Massachusetts.
Source: Guthorn, Peter. United State Coastal Charts: 1783 - 1861. Exton, Pennsylvania. 1984. p. 12.
PUBLICATION DATE: 1913
GEOGRAPHIC AREA: United States
BODY OF WATER: Vineyard Sound
CONDITION: Good.
Laid to linen as issued. Washed, Solid. Age-toning especially towards the left and right edges. No holes, tears, or repairs. Minor edge chip at upper left corner and in the bottom margin.
COLORING: A few bearing lines colored in red.
ENGRAVER:
SIZE: 48
" x
26 "
ITEM PHYSICAL LOCATION: 1406
PRICE: $
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