Theodore Ditterline (1816-1883). Sketch of the Battles of Gettysburg July 1st, 2d, and 3d, 1863. New York: C. A. Alvord, 1864.

12mo. Color lithograph folding map "Field of Gettysburg" prepared by Ditterline. Map 17 x 20 3/8 in. Original black moire paper wrappers, gilt-lettered. Second printing of pamphlet. 

Library of Congress Civil War Maps,  No. 331; Nelson, Mapping the Civil War, pp. 96-97; Nicholson, p. 241; Reardon, Pickett's Charge in History and Memory, p. 65; Sabin 20329; Sauers 589. Not in Broadfoot or Nevins. 

THE FIRST PUBLISHED MAP OF THE GETTYSBURG BATTLEFIELD

The unusual oval map, complete with the scarce 24-page pamphlet, is considered the first map of the battlefield published only a few months after the battle. Prepared by Ditterline from "personal observation of eye-witnesses of the several battles," he particularly thanks Gettysburg attorney David McCenauighy, the president of the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association. The fine color rendition of the topography of the battlefield with the formations of both Armies, clearly showing the Union's fish-hook line (Nelson, p. 96-97). 

When published, the Gettysburg newspaper, The Adams Sentinel, noted that it is a "very distinct and correct map of the battle-field...the details are quite minute, and will be highly satisfactory to all who feel an interest in the three day's fight." (20 October 1863). The review suggests that it was issued by October, preceding the dedication of the Soldiers' Cemetery and Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. The content is also indicative of the speed at which it was compiled, as it omitted both "Pettigrew and Trimble's Commands entirely in describing how Pickett's Three Brigades made the attack (Reardon, Pickett's Charge, p. 65). 

This copy was lithographed by J. Bien in New York with their "34 Vesey St." imprint alongside an 1863 copyright statement from the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The Beinecke copy (774hjc G33 1863D, Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Yale University) and a copy sold by Swann (Lot 151, Maps & Atlases, 22 June 2023) both bear the J. Bien mark. Other copies, including the Library of Congress copy (G3824.G3S5 1863 .D42, no. 331) bear the imprint of Philadelphia lithographer P.S. Duval & Son and lack the copyright statement. No known precedence has been established. 

A rare copy of the first published map of the Battle of Gettysburg. An important selection for any Gettysburg collection. 

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Map in excellent condition, retaining strong and vibrant colors. Minor chipping to wraps, minor toning.