Produced and published by the prolific American mapmaker Albert Ruger, this unique depiction of Grand Rapids shows the city in a period of significant growth and transformation both culturally and economically. The town was historically known for a thriving furniture-making industry, eventually earning it the nickname "Furniture City." In the years following the conclusion of the American Civil War, Grand Rapids experienced population growth as European immigrants, and Southern Americans flocked to the city looking for work in manufacturing, brewing, and railroad construction.
Michigan offered some ninety-thousand troops to the Union cause over the course of the war, including General George Armstrong Custer. Abraham Lincoln initially requested one regiment, though Governor Austin Blair sent seven. Grand Rapids is situated on the Grand River and is home to 38th President of the United States Gerald Ford.
Bird's eye perspectives were produced as marketing materials for growing cities throughout America and were wildly popular from the late nineteenth century through the 1920s. Because they didn't contain technical data, they were able to contain more detailed artistic embellishments and featured prominent civic buildings, notable residences, and other regional attractions. The instantly recognizable style immediately transports the viewer back in time, creating an indelible bond between the past and present.
Ruger's Chicago Lithographing Company produced more bird's eye perspectives than any other lithography company, and his works are included in the Smithsonian archive, as well as the Library of Congress. 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. This eye-catching vintage map reproduction print makes the perfect gift for anyone that loves history and imagery.
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