Produced and illustrated by one of the most prolific American cartographers and lithographers of the nineteenth century, this birds-eye perspective shows the iconic city in a period of significant transformation following the conclusion of the American Civil War. Albert Ruger’s works are among the most popular from the era due to their unique aesthetic and distinctive style, which immediately transports the viewer back in time. Ruger produced numerous panoramic views, which served as marketing materials to attract residents and merchants alike by featuring prominent civic features and attractive geographic aspects, including ports, rivers, and manufacturing plants.
Knoxville recovered quickly at the end of the Civil War due to significant investment from Northern firms eager to construct manufacturing facilities and other industrial factories at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. This spurred considerable prosperity and a population boom throughout the latter portions of the nineteenth century. The University of Tennessee is located in Knoxville and was modernized during this period and became a respected institution of higher education. People were flocking to the region eager for work in the thriving city, and many neighborhoods were established on cultural lines that exist to this day. Knoxville developed a distinctive culture during this period.
Knoxville was first settled by Europeans in 1786, though it struggled to grow until the arrival of rail lines in the 1850s expanded access and created an economic boom. This authentic piece of American cartographical history creates an indelible bond between the past and present, capturing a historic moment in the city’s 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.
