Titcomb, J. P.
1908

Rare reverse-image blueprint or cyanotype of St. Petersburg Florida

SOLD

Map of the City of St. Petersburg Hillsborough Co. Florida 1908

DESCRIPTION: SOLD

Introducing an extraordinary piece of cartographic history, this rare 1908 mirror-image blueprint cadastral map of St. Petersburg, Florida, showcases the city's early waterfront development, with the railroad running through the heart of the city along First Avenue. In 1908, a non mirror-image edition of this map could be purchased for just $1.00, either directly from its creator, J.P. Titcomb, or at the local pharmacy owned by W. A. Holhouser.

Today, this particular instance of Titcomb's mirror-image blueprint is an exceptionally rare find, with the only other known copy presumably in a large Florida institution. This map would have served as the input for a photo-reprographic process, such as photo-lithography, to create a series of smaller copies featuring black lines on a white background.



John Poore Titcomb
(1861 - 1931 )



J. P. Titcomb, a civil engineer from Amesbury, Massachusetts, first set foot in Kerr City, Florida, in 1887 as a young surveyor eager to make his mark in the burgeoning town. He advertised his services in the Palatka Daily News as a "Civil Engineer and Notary Public," quickly establishing himself as a reliable and skilled professional.

As the 20th century approached, Titcomb found himself drawn to the charming city of St. Petersburg. He and his family settled into a picturesque water-front cottage on the south side of town, while still maintaining a home in Amesbury as a summer retreat and a base for his northern business dealings.

Titcomb's dedication and expertise did not go unnoticed. In April 1902, he was appointed as the City Surveyor of St. Petersburg, becoming the city's first official City Engineer. His vision and hard work were instrumental in shaping the city's infrastructure, most notably the construction of the first brick-paved streets. Titcomb's contributions laid the foundation for St. Petersburg's future growth and modernization.

In 1904, Titcomb showcased his entrepreneurial spirit by placing an advertisement in the Tampa Bay Times, offering "Revised maps of St. Petersburg." These maps provided detailed information about lot sizes, sewer locations, and street elevations, demonstrating his commitment to the city's development. However, the demanding nature of his work took a toll on his health, and in May 1906, Titcomb reluctantly resigned from his position as City Engineer, stating, "The arduous work incidental to the office were too much for his health." He retreated to his Amesbury home to recuperate.

CREATOR: Titcomb, J. P.

PUBLICATION DATE: 1908

GEOGRAPHIC AREA: United States

BODY OF WATER: Tampa Bay

CONDITION: Good.  A few edge tears repaired from the verso. Still bright. No major issues.

COLORING: Blueprint

ENGRAVER: 

SIZE: 46 " x 36 "

ITEM PHYSICAL LOCATION: 

PRICE: $

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