Central Park Map and Guide
New York: Laura Jacobs, 1961.
Folding map with pamphlet covers. Color lithograph. 38" x 12"
Beautifully designed map of Central Park featuring many illustrations of major landmarks and buildings throughout the park. Surrounding streets are labeled, and drives, footpaths, bridle paths, bicycle paths, and comfort stations are depicted. Each entrance and gate is named, with playgrounds, museums, statues, fountains, and bodies of water labeled. The map locates such historic spots as Fort Fish, the Sheep Meadow, Pilgrim Hill, Harlem Meer and the Ramble. Text on verso provides information on food and drink, sports and recreation, museums in and around the park, nature study, music and drama, and children's rides - with hours and fees where applicable. In very good condition, with some writing and toning to covers, still attached. Map is otherwise clean and bright. Fold lines as issued.
Laura Jacobs (b. 1929) was a layout artist for the Association for the Aid of Crippled Children. As reported by The New York Times, Jacobs grew up in tenements on the Lower East Side and first discovered Central Park at the age of 5, becoming one of the city's greatest park enthusiasts. In 1960 she began working on her own map of Central Park - with more extensive information than the map offered by the Parks Department - compiled from her research at New York Historical Society and elsewhere. Her map was self-published and sold for 50 cents each at the Historical Society, the American Museum-Hayden Planetarium, the American Museum of Natural History and other map stores throughout the city. She was also sometimes seen at the edge of the park, pulling a shopping cart loaded with maps available for sale. (Devlin, 1961)
Binding: Pamphlet
Condition: Very Good
Language: English
Price: $500.00
Item #330453