Description
Thayer, Bridgman and Fanning was a printing partnership active in New York City from at least 1853 to 1861. They published Traditions of De-Coo-Dah about ancient Native American mounds and fortifications (first edition 1853). The three members of the firm were also variously in business partnerships with other New York City printing firms. Horace Thayer shared an office in New York with the Kelloggs, a large multi-city publishing operation, from 1846-47. T.C. Fanning published Phelps’ New York City Guide in 1852 and 1853 at 195 Broadway, also the address of Phelps and Humphrey during those years. Both Fanning and Thayer also worked with Timothy and Edward Ensign, and with their associates. Between 1841 and 1861 the Ensigns worked with the firms Phelps, Humphrey; Ensigns & Thayer (with Horace Thayer); and as Ensign, Bridgman & Fanning. All of these various firms, including Thayer, Bridgman and Fanning, produced a number of notable books on American history and traveler’s guides that incorporated maps and illustrations, as well as separately issued wall and pocket maps and prints.
Full publication information: “Thayer Bridgman & Fanning, New York, 156, 156, William Street, Corner of Ann.
Condition: Wall map, as issued. Generally in very good condition, with the usual toning, wear, soft creases. Recently professionally restored: the original shellac and rollers were removed and the map rebacked on canvas, stabilizing some existing cracks. Cloth selvedge was added to the edges.
References:
Haskell, Daniel C., ed. Manhattan Maps: A Co-operative List. New York: New York Public Library, 1931. 980-83.
Peters, Harry T. America on Stone. U.S.: Doubleday, Doran, 1931. pp. 181, 243 and 325.
