Immerse yourself in the rich history of the United States with this exquisite old map of Washington & Oregon from 1859, crafted by the esteemed mapmaker J. H. Colton. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and the exceptional quality of his work, Colton is widely recognized as one of the finest American mapmakers of his era. This map is a testament to his skill and dedication, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

This map hails from a time when the United States was still in its infancy, with many settlements yet to be founded. It provides a snapshot of a moment in history when the West was still largely uncharted territory, waiting to be explored and settled. The region's history is etched into every line and marking on this map, telling a story of a time when the future of these states was still being written.

Over the past 150 years, many names and borders have inevitably changed, adding another layer of intrigue to this historical artifact. The settlements of Olympia, Vancouver, Salem, Portland, and Walla Walla, which were among the most notable of the era, are all prominently featured. Each of these settlements has its own unique history and significance, contributing to the rich tapestry of the region's past.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a cartography aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and craftsmanship of old maps, this piece is sure to captivate and inspire. It's not just a map—it's a journey into the past, a chance to explore the history of Washington & Oregon as it was in 1859, through the eyes of one of America's most respected mapmakers. This is more than just a purchase—it's an investment in a piece of history, a conversation starter, and a stunning addition to any collection. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own this remarkable piece of American history.

Settlements in Washington (1859)

• Olympia (1850): Known as the end of the Oregon Trail, Olympia became the capital of Washington Territory in 1853.
• Vancouver (1825): Originally Fort Vancouver, it was a major fur trading post for the Hudson's Bay Company.
• Walla Walla (1818): Established as a fur trading post by the Hudson's Bay Company, it was known as Fort Nez Perces.
• Steilacoom (1851): The oldest incorporated town in Washington, it was known for its large military presence.
• Seattle (1851): Named after Chief Sealth, Seattle was a major port for lumber and coal industries.
• Tacoma (1852): Known as the "City of Destiny", it was the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad.
• Spokane (1810): Known as Spokane House, it was one of the earliest European settlements in Washington.
• Bellingham (1852): Originally known as Whatcom, it was a key location during the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush.
• Port Townsend (1851): Known as the "City of Dreams", it was a bustling seaport in the mid-19th century.
• Everett (1852): Known for its natural resources, it was a hub for lumber and mining industries.

Settlements in Oregon (1859)

• Salem (1842): The capital of Oregon, it was a key location for early Methodist missionaries.
• Portland (1845): Known as "Stumptown" due to its rapid growth, it was a major port in the Pacific Northwest.
• Astoria (1811): The oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, it was a key fur trading post.
• Eugene (1846): Known for its fertile farmland, it was a popular destination for settlers on the Oregon Trail.
• Oregon City (1829): The original capital of the Oregon Territory, it was the end of the Oregon Trail.
• Bend (1858): Known for its timber industry, it was a key location for pioneers.
• Medford (1852): Known for its orchards and vineyards, it was a key location for the California Gold Rush.
• Corvallis (1845): Home to Oregon State University, it was a center for education and culture.
• Roseburg (1851): Known for its timber industry, it was a key location for pioneers.
• Pendleton (1851): Known for its woolen mills, it was a key location for pioneers.

Native Tribes

• Chinook: Occupied the lower Columbia River region.
• Nez Perce: Inhabited the plateau region of Washington.
• Yakama: Occupied the south-central region of Washington.
• Umatilla: Lived in the northeastern region of Oregon.
• Kalapuya: Inhabited the Willamette Valley region of Oregon.

Natural Attractions

• Columbia River: The largest river in the Pacific Northwest.
• Mount Rainier: An active stratovolcano and the highest mountain in Washington.
• Crater Lake: The deepest lake in the United States, located in Oregon.
• Multnomah Falls: A waterfall located in the Columbia River Gorge.
• Hells Canyon: The deepest river gorge in North America.

Historical Events

• Oregon Trail (1811-1850): Over 400,000 settlers migrated west on this trail during the mid-19th century.
• Whitman Massacre (1847): A tragic event where Cayuse Indians killed Marcus and Narcissa Whitman and 12 others.
• Treaty of 1855: Several treaties signed by the U.S. government and tribes in Washington and Oregon, resulting in significant land loss for the tribes.

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 all sizes, but it looks even better when printed large.

I can create beautiful, large prints of this map up to 70in (178cm). Please get in touch if you're looking for larger, customised or different framing options.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40.5x51cm) 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 main collection of USA and North America maps.

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.

This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.

For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.

Many of our maps and art prints are chosen as thoughtful gifts for homes, offices, studies and meaningful places.

Choose a framed option for the easiest ready-to-hang gift, or choose an unframed print if the recipient may prefer to select their own frame.

We make orders locally in 23 countries around the world, so gifts can often be produced close to the recipient. This helps them arrive faster, travel more safely, and avoid customs or import duty surprises.

• We can deliver directly to the recipient
• Framed pieces arrive ready to hang
• Unframed prints are carefully packed in a strong protective tube
• Almost every order is made locally, for faster, safer gifting
• 90-day returns give the recipient time to decide

If you are not sure what to choose, please contact us. We can help you pick the right map, size, finish or delivery option.

Most orders are made locally and delivered in around 2–3 working days, depending on the product, size and destination.

We print and frame maps and artwork in 23 countries around the world, so your order is usually made close to you or your recipient. That means faster delivery, less time in transit, and no customs or import duty surprises.

Personalised and customised pieces usually take an extra 1–2 working days, because we prepare your design and send it to you for approval before printing.

Very large framed orders can take a little longer, as they need extra care in production and delivery.

Every order is carefully packaged: unframed prints are sent in a strong protective tube, while framed pieces are securely packed with protective materials around the frame.

If you need your order by a particular date, please contact us before ordering. We’ll check the best production route and delivery option for your location.

Express delivery is available at checkout for most countries. Next-day delivery is available in the UK, US, Singapore and the UAE.

Your order is covered by our 90-day returns policy and 10-year guarantee.

Read our full delivery and local production guide

Our standard frame is a gallery-style black ash hardwood frame, with a simple, modern look. It is approximately 20mm (0.8in) wide. You can also view some lovely customer photos of framed maps and art.

We use super-clear acrylic glazing, also known as Perspex or Acrylite, instead of traditional glass. It is lighter, safer, and has lower reflectivity, giving the artwork a clearer, cleaner appearance.

Six standard frame colours are available at no extra cost: black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white, and antique gold. Custom framing and mounting/matting is also available for customers looking for something more specific.

Most maps, art prints, and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced wooden box frame, and then float the piece within a wooden outer frame. The finished result is beautifully presented, with no glazing between you and the artwork.

All frames are supplied ready to hang, with either string or brackets fitted to the back. Very large frames will include heavy-duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

We can also supply old maps and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag, and other materials.

If you would prefer to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read our size guide before ordering.

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

I print with Epson ultrachrome giclée UV fade resistant pigment inks - some of the best inks you can find.

I can also make maps on canvas, cotton rag and other exotic materials.

Learn more about The Unique Maps Co.

Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

The options are almost infinite. Please see my map personalisation page for some wonderful examples of what's possible.

To order a personalised map, select "personalise your map" before adding it to your basket.

Get in touch if you're looking for more complex customisations and personalisations.

Map ageing

I have been asked hundreds of times over the years by customers if they could buy a map that looks even older.

Well, now you can, by selecting Aged before you add a map to your basket.

All the product photos you see on this page show the map in its Original form. This is what the map looks like today.

If you select Aged, I will age your map by hand, using a special and unique process developed through years of studying old maps, talking to researchers to understand the chemistry of aging paper, and of course... lots of practice!

If you're unsure, stick to the Original colour of the map. If you want something a bit darker and older looking, go for Aged.

See some amazing examples of Aged maps.

If you are not happy with your order for any reason, contact me and I'll get it fixed ASAP, free of charge. Please see my returns and refund policy for more information.

I am very confident you will like your restored map or art print. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and art prints and have over 5,000 real 5-star reviews. My work has been featured in interior design magazines, on the BBC, and on the walls of dozens of 5-star hotels.

I use a unique process to restore maps and artwork that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps and illustrations can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore them. As a result, I guarantee my maps and art prints are a cut above the rest. I stand by my products and will always make sure you're 100% happy with what you receive.

Almost all of my maps and art prints look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.