Rare Old Map of the Bronx, NYC by Bromley, 1879: South Melrose, Mott Haven, St. Mary's Park, East River, Railways

The "Part of ward 23, New York City" map, meticulously crafted by G.W. Bromley in 1879, offers a captivating glimpse into the urban fabric of late 19th century New York City. This hand-colored lithographed map is a treasure trove of historical and geographical information, detailing the intricate layout of one of the city's vibrant wards. It showcases the burgeoning neighborhoods of South Melrose, East Morrisania, Mott Haven, North New York, Port Morris, and Mount Buena Grove, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the city's development.

G.W. Bromley, renowned for his detailed urban atlases, brings his expertise to bear in this map, providing an invaluable resource for historians and urban enthusiasts alike. The map not only delineates the boundaries of ward 23 but also highlights original farm lines, water courses, and ward boundaries, offering a unique perspective on the historical evolution of New York City's infrastructure. Bromley's attention to detail is evident in the precise depiction of buildings, fire hydrants, steam and street railways, and water mains, making this map a vital document for understanding the city's past.

One of the most striking features of this map is its detailed portrayal of significant landmarks and neighborhoods. The inclusion of St. Mary's Park, a large green space that provided a vital recreational area for residents, underscores the importance of public parks in urban planning. The East River, with its bustling waterfront, is prominently featured, highlighting the river's role in the city's commerce and transportation. The map also meticulously charts the railroad tracks and stations, reflecting the critical role of rail transport in the city's expansion.

The neighborhoods depicted on this map, such as Mott Haven and Port Morris, are of particular historical interest. These areas were undergoing significant transformation during the late 19th century, evolving from rural landscapes into densely populated urban centers. The map captures this dynamic period of growth, offering a snapshot of the city's architectural and social changes. The detailed block dimensions and street layouts provide insights into the planning and development strategies of the era.

This map is not just a geographical document but a window into the life and times of 19th century New York City. It serves as a testament to the city's rapid growth and the complexities of urban development. Collectors and historians will find this map an invaluable addition to their collections, offering a rich narrative of the city's past and a detailed account of its physical and social landscape. The "Part of ward 23, New York City" map by G.W. Bromley is a true gem, capturing the essence of a pivotal era in the city's history.

Streets and roads on this map

• 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137 Streets
• 138th Street
• 139th Street
• 140th Street
• 141st Street
• 142nd Street
• 143rd Street
• 144th Street
• 145th Street
• 146th Street
• 147th Street

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Neighbourhoods:
• South Melrose
• East Morrisania
• Mott Haven
• North New York
• Port Morris
• Mount Buena Grove
• Illustrations:
• Detailed illustrations of buildings and railways.
• Large parks:
• St. Mary's Park
• Other notable features:
• The East River
• Railroad tracks and stations

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: Part of ward 23, New York City
• Full name and date: The map's full name is 'Part of ward 23, New York City.', and it was originally published in 1879 by G.W. Bromley.
• Mapmaker/Publisher: G.W. Bromley
• Context about the mapmaker: G.W. Bromley was known for creating detailed atlases of urban areas, often used for insurance purposes.
• Main subject: Part of ward 23, New York City
• Larger region: New York City
• Topics and themes:
• Buildings: The map shows individual buildings.
• Fire hydrants: Locations of fire hydrants are marked.
• Steam and street railways: Railways are indicated.
• Original water courses: Natural water courses are shown.
• Original farm lines: Historical farm boundaries are marked.
• Ward boundaries: Boundaries of ward 23 are detailed.
• Water mains: Locations of water mains are included.
• Block dimensions: Dimensions of city blocks are provided.
• Regions shown: South Melrose, East Morrisania, Mott Haven, North New York, Port Morris, and Mount Buena Grove.
• Design/Style: Hand-colored lithographed map, typical of the 19th century urban mapping style.
• Historical significance: The map provides a detailed view of the infrastructure and urban layout of part of New York City in the late 19th century, useful for historical urban studies and understanding the development of the city.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.