Hammond's Descriptive Atlas of Panama and the Isthmian Canal
Hammond's Descriptive Atlas of Panama and the Isthmian Canal
8/29/24
Hammond's Descriptive Atlas of Panama and the Isthmian Canal was a significant cartographic publication that provided detailed information about Panama and the Panama Canal during the early 20th century. Here are some key points about this atlas:
Publication Details
The atlas was published by C.S. Hammond & Company, a prominent map and atlas publisher based in New York[1]. It was likely released around 1910-1911, during a period of intense interest in the Panama Canal project[4].
Content and Features
The atlas contained various maps and information related to Panama and the canal:
- Detailed maps of the Panama Canal Zone, showing the canal's route, locks, and surrounding areas[2] - Maps of the entire country of Panama, providing context for the canal's location[2] - Topographical information, including mountain ranges and waterways[2] - Transportation infrastructure, such as existing and projected railroads[2] - Settlements and administrative features like post offices and villages[2]
Historical Context
This atlas was published during a crucial period in the Panama Canal's history:
- The United States had taken control of the Canal Zone in 1904 and was actively constructing the canal[6] - There was significant public and political interest in the project, which explains the demand for such detailed atlases[3] - The atlas likely served as an important resource for those interested in the engineering, geography, and geopolitics of the canal project
Significance
Hammond's Descriptive Atlas of Panama and the Isthmian Canal was part of a broader trend of cartographic works focusing on the Panama Canal during its construction. It provided readers with comprehensive visual and descriptive information about one of the most significant engineering projects of the early 20th century, helping to educate the public about this monumental undertaking.
