Map of Texas
Compiled by Surveys recorded in the Land Office of Texas and other surveys
John Arrowsmith, London 1841

When John Arrowsmith took over his uncle Aaron's cartographic business in London in 1834, the family name had already been established as one of the most prominent of the London map trade. Under his leadership, the firm continued to be one of the most illustrious names of 19th century British map-makers.

In 1841, Arrowsmith issued this outstanding map of Texas, including the most up-to-date information recorded by the Texas General Land Office. The GLO was established by the first Republic Congress in December, 1836. Its primary function during early Republic days was to conduct extensive surveys to record existing land grants from Spanish and Mexican dominion as well as new ones granted to Texas military veterans and new inhabitants. The resulting surveys generated a tremendous amount of new and accurate data, especially regarding boundaries and river systems, plus the latest developments in political divisions. So important was the accuracy and source of his information that Arrowsmith adds this into the title of his map. He emphasizes the importance by including the official seals of the Republic of Texas and the General Land Office, plus the notation that Texas was officially recognized as an independent state by Great Britain on Nov. 16, 1840.

In 1841, the map was published in Arrowsmith's own London Atlas, as well as within the important book by William Kennedy, Texas: the rise, Progress and Prospects of the Republic of Texas.

Kennedy was a diplomat and writer. Born in Ireland, he studied journalism and joined the staff of the British Earl of Durham in 1833. He traveled with Durham to Canada and on to Texas and the U.S. in 1839, studying local government in principal cities. In 1841 his two-volume book appeared, becoming one of the most influential books about Texas in Europe, especially effecting German emigration. (In 1842 Kennedy replaced Arthur Iken as Texas consul in London and became British consul in Galveston later the same year, serving until annexation by the United States).

This striking, beautifully rendered map of Texas is one of the best of the Republic period. It is a combination of four years of extensive surveys and the data generated on behalf of the Republic government, produced by one of the finest cartographers of the 19th century.