Dec 08, 2011 - Sale 2264

Sale 2264 - Lot 163

Price Realized: $ 14,400
?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price
Estimate: $ 5,000 - $ 7,500
(RHODE ISLAND--CONANICUT.) Early manuscript plat map of the island, consisting of 3 joined sheets with a later paper backing and a linen backing, actual map measuring 305x1100 mm overall (12x43 1/4 inches); few small areas of loss, some soiling and other very minor faults. Circa 1723
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Additional Details

Choice early manuscript plat map of Conanicut Island. The island was deeded to a number of buyers in 1656 under the leadership of William Coddington, Benedict Arnold, and others. It was divided proportionately amongst the investors. Joshua Fisher drew a plat in 1657 identifying the property lines of the various original holders.
The present example is based on the original Fisher plat but brings it up to date. Some of the original landholders no longer have claims and earlier claims have been broken up amongst additional family members. The original land set aside for the town of Jamestown remains but does not seem to have been developed. Landowners homes are properly placed on the individual properties.
The map also contains two small sections of manuscript notes which give additional information about the map and its creation," A draft of Cononicutt Island shewing all the by ways & every mans share of land as thay are drawn in Fishers draft according to the best of our judgment; according to that draft & cumpared with the island; by us; John M[.........]. March the: 29: 1723. James[town]." The remaining note states, "The hole prickt lines disclose the hiways the fenses, the lines that are prickt half way sheweth the furst divison & the long black lines shew the last division." The various types of lines mentioned are clearly discernible on the map.
An interesting addition to the early history of Conanicut Island, now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rhode Island.