952 pp. This is preceded by Index to Executive Documents, Senate, 1st Session, 31st Congress, 1849-50, 43 pp. With 7 maps, 6 of them folding. (8vo) 22.5x14 cm. (8¾x5½"), original sheep, morocco spine label. Senate Report 18, 31st Congress, 1st Session. Serial 557.
Important compilation of documents relating to the conquest of California and the beginning of the California Gold Rush. "This important volume contains the official correspondence and documents relating to California, 1847-49, and is the most extensive source of authorities covering the period" - Zamorano. The maps include "Map of Oregon and Upper California from the Surveys of John Charles Fremont" by Charles Preuss, with indication of the Gold Region; George Derby's "Sketch of General Riley's Route through the Mining Districts, July and Aug. 1849" (Wheat, Gold Region 79) which includes San Francisco & Monterey; the entrance to San Francisco Bay; "Map of Fort Hill, Monterey" from Lt. Warner's Field Map; plus route of Major Beall's expedition against the Apaches, Baja California and Port Escondido.
Provenance: California Book Auction, 5/12/88
References: Howes C53; Kurutz 106a; Wagner-Camp 179b:1; Wheat Books 31; Wheat Transmississippi 613 (Preuss map); Wheat Gold Region 79 (Derby map); Zamorano Eighty 14.
Condition:
Binding worn, covers detached along with flyleaves; some darkening/foxing to contents, short stub tear to Preuss map, very good.