HISTORIX Vintage 1869 Moline Illinois Map and 50 similar items

Produced by Albert Ruger’s Merchant Lithographing Company, this birds eye perspective shows Moline in a period of significant growth following the conclusion of the American Civil War. Panoramic maps were published as marketing materials to promote prominent civic and economic features to attract merchants and residents alike. Ruger’s maps have distinguishing characteristics and often depict bustling waterways and manufacturing plants. Many residents flocked to the city in the latter portions of the nineteenth century attracted by economic opportunities in the numerous mills found on the banks of the Mississippi River. The region was primarily settled by French immigrants in the eighteenth century and still bears some of these cultural influences. The cities initial plat followed the popular Lowell grid of sixteen streets, which took inspiration from the industrial center of Lowell, Massachusetts. It was even marketed as the Lowell of the West during the 1850s. As part of the so-called Quad Cities, Moline remains a cultural hub for the region. The region continued to experience significant prosperity and growth during the nineteenth century. The cities leadership focused on improving municipal services and developing solid urban planning solutions. Neighboring Rock Island sought to annex Moline in the 1850s but was unsuccessful as Moline’s residents and leadership’s lack of desire to take on Rock Island’s debts. This map’s distinctive style and unique aesthetic immediately transport the viewer back in time, creating an indelible bond between the past and present. This is truly an authentic piece of American cartographical history. Our museum quality giclee print comes printed with archival ink on premium heavyweight matte paper. Shipped in a sturdy cardboard tube your print will arrive ready to be framed. This eye-catching vintage map reproduction print makes the perfect gift for anyone that lov