RARE 1848 Massachusetts RAILROAD WAR Archive - 6 Booklets + FOLDOUT SURVEY MAP For Sale

Up for sale is a comprehensive, museum-quality archive documenting the fierce legislative and corporate battles of the 1848 Massachusetts Railroad expansion. This lot consists of six (6) original 1st Edition booklets and a large, rare fold-out survey map, all originating from a single contemporary 19th-century collection.

The Archive Includes:

1. LARGE FOLDOUT MAP (1848): "Map of the Several Rail Road Routes... in the Counties of Essex and Part of Middlesex." A detailed survey showing the contested lines between Salem, Lowell, and Lawrence.

2. WESTERN RAIL-ROAD 13th ANNUAL REPORT (1848): Detailing the critical Boston-to-Albany line under the leadership of William Sturgis.

3. LORING’S ARGUMENT (1848): The "Remonstrance" on behalf of the Boston & Lowell RR to block competition, authored by legendary attorney Charles G. Loring.

4. HOPKINSON’S ARGUMENT (1848): The opposing case for the Salem and Lowell line.

5. LEGISLATIVE CIRCULAR: A rare "Attention of the Legislature" pamphlet regarding the Salem and Lowell route.

6. GRAND JUNCTION RR STATEMENT (1848): Regarding the controversial Mystic River crossing and the East Boston wharves.

Historical Significance:This lot captures the exact moment the Boston and Lowell Railroad fought to maintain its 30-year monopoly against new industrial challengers. The presence of signatures from figures like William Sturgis—a Northwest fur trade pioneer turned railroad titan—adds immense provenance to this set.

Condition Report:

• The Map: Exceptional condition for a fold-out; clean lines, minimal foxing, and intact folds.

• The Booklets: All retain their original 19th-century wrappers (Green, Brown, and Buff). Each features the historic "library" punch-holes on the left margin, confirming they were once part of a prestigious private or legislative bound volume.

• Interior: Pages are bright and crisp across the entire lot.