A very rare copper engraved map of the newly established states (6 years into their declaration of independence) showing the short lived state of Franklinia. Named after the statesman Benjamin Franklin, the State of Franklinia had a limited existence (1784-1788). Early settlers to that area declared their independence in 1784 by enacting a state constitution. In November of 1784 Federal leaders held a convention to form the State of Franklinia. Originally, Franklinia was considered part of North Carolina during the colonial period and formally annexed by that state in 1776. However, The land was difficult to protect and was offered to the Federal Government on June 2, 1784. The offer was withdrawn on November 20, 1784, at which time the State of Franklinia was founded.
The land consisted of the counties Sullivan,, Washington, and Green and was governed by John Sevier and the Government of North Carolina. Because of the difficulties with Native Americans, the Spanish, and more importantly, the lack of recognition by Congress caused the state to collapse in 1788. At this time it became part of Tennessee.
Other interesting features depict the vast Georgia Territory extending from the Atlantic to the Mississippi River. Most of Georgia is occupied by the Indian Nations of the Creeks, Chickasaws, Choctaws, and the Cherokees. The huge Louisiana Territory is shown from the Gulf up to the British Possessions. Also shown is the large North-West Territory with a section titled Ohio, along with all of the original 13 colonies depicted in good detail. Ft. Pickering is now the city of Memphis. Inset view of Niagara Falls. c
Thibeautiful map was drawn by J. Wyld and Published by John Thomson & Co. Edinburgh (1814).s
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