A Distance Map of the Town of Franklin
DraftsmanDrawn by
Andrew B. Smith
(American, 1818 - 1885)
Date1858
MediumDrawing; pencil and red and black ink on wove paper, on rollers
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (image height x width): 50 3/4 x 45 3/4in. (128.9 x 116.2cm)
Sheet (height x width): 51 1/2 x 45 3/4in. (130.8 x 116.2cm)
Mount (height x width): 53 1/2 x 45 3/4in. (135.9 x 116.2cm)
ClassificationsGraphics
Credit LineMuseum purchase
Object number1947.21.1
DescriptionManuscript map of Franklin, Connecticut, with the Shetucket River to the east. The local roads are shown, with black squares along them marking the locations of houses and businesses. The owner's names are provided, along with measurements that indicate the distance between that building and its neighbor. The Shetucket River and various ponds and brooks are shown.
Label TextOn February 3, 1859, Andrew B. Smith, a descendant of one of Franklin, Connecticut's earliest settlers, was appointed postmaster for that town. It is tempting to link this appointment with the large map of Franlkin showing the distances between all of the houses and businesses that Smith drew the preceeding year. Did Franklin have home mail delivery in the late 1850s? Post office letter carriers delivered mail house-to-house in cities and larger towns, but Franklin was and remains a small place. In 2010, there were fewer than 2000 residents.
NotesCartographic Note: Scale: 1 inch equals 48 rodsStatus
Not on view
