Colton’s 1855 Map of Arkansas – A Restored Vintage Classic
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Step back into the mid-19th century and experience Arkansas as it once was with this beautifully restored 1855 G.W. Colton Map of Arkansas. Originally published by G.W. & C.B. Colton in Colton’s General Atlas of the World, this rare map captures the state less than twenty years after its admission to the Union, showcasing a young Arkansas during a time of growth and change.
Each reproduction includes a custom historical letter telling the story behind the map, making it the perfect gift for collectors, history lovers, and anyone who appreciates the heritage of the American South. Printed on heavyweight archival paper or premium polycotton canvas, every county line, river, and rail line is preserved in ultra-high-definition clarity thanks to our meticulous digital restoration process.
To ensure your map arrives safely, paper prints are carefully rolled in a sturdy cardboard mailing tube, while canvases ship in reinforced boxes for maximum protection. From presentation to preservation, every detail is crafted with care.
Bring home more than wall art. Bring home a story, a conversation piece, and a striking centerpiece that celebrates the enduring history of Arkansas.
The Map Story
The Mississippi River, a vital artery of trade and travel, defines the state’s eastern edge, while towns and settlements are carefully marked, some destined to grow into bustling cities and others fading into history. Every detail reflects a state balancing its agricultural roots with the momentum of change sweeping across America.
Beyond its practical use, the map was designed with artistry in mind. An ornate border frames the work, turning a functional tool into a piece of decorative beauty. To hold this map today is to glimpse Arkansas at a formative time, when the land was still being defined and its communities were laying the groundwork for generations to come.
Restored with care, this map offers more than geography—it offers a story of resilience, ambition, and transformation. It is both a work of cartographic craftsmanship and a testament to Arkansas’s enduring place in American history.
Materials
Hand‑Stretched Canvas: If you choose canvas, we use a premium cotton‑poly blend stretched over solid pine frames. Each canvas is carefully hand‑stretched for a tight, gallery‑quality finish that’s ready to hang right out of the box.
Vivid, Fade‑Resistant Inks: We use professional‑grade inks that are UV‑resistant, so your print retains its rich colors even when displayed in bright rooms.
Expert Restoration: Every map is digitally restored by skilled artisans. We preserve the character of the original while enhancing clarity, so you see the map as it was meant to be seen.
Secure Packaging: Paper prints are rolled in heavy‑duty mailing tubes, and canvases are cushioned in reinforced boxes to ensure they arrive in pristine condition.
Choosing one of our prints means investing in craftsmanship. We combine historical authenticity with modern print technology and premium materials, giving you a work of art built to stand the test of time.
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Why Choose Us?
| Feature | Us | Competitor A | Competitor B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hand Crafted | |||
| Museum Quality | |||
| 100 Year Guarantee | |||
| Restored by Hand | |||
| Certificate of Authenticity |
Art Prints
Archival quality colors. Best option if you'd like to frame it yourself
The Best Materials
We hand-stretched our canvas on solid American-grown pine stretcher bars. We use quality canvas and fade-resistant inks to create the lasting art. Canvases come with hardware already installed and ready to hang.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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All of our maps are meticulously restored reproductions of historic originals. Each piece is digitally repaired and color-corrected to bring out the finest details while preserving its authentic, vintage character.
Yes. All Archive Prints products are printed to order in the USA with archival materials.
We offer two premium formats:
- High-Quality Paper Posters – Printed on thick, archival-grade matte paper for rich, vibrant detail.
- Hand-Stretched Canvas Prints – Printed on premium polycotton canvas and mounted on 1.5" solid American pine stretcher bars for a gallery-quality finish.
We carefully digitally restore each map to enhance clarity and color while preserving its original look and historic charm. You’ll enjoy sharp details and a timeless vintage aesthetic that feels true to the original piece.
Currently, we don’t offer framing or personalization. However, our posters are printed in standard sizes, making it easy to find a ready-made frame. For a polished, gallery-style look, our stretched canvas prints arrive ready to hang right out of the box.
Yes! We offer free shipping on all products within the United States. Each map is carefully packaged to ensure it arrives in perfect condition.
If you’re not completely satisfied, you can return your order in new condition for a full refund. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.
Absolutely! Our maps make thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts for history lovers, map collectors, or anyone looking to add vintage character to their home or office. Choose between paper prints for framing or stretched canvas for a ready-to-hang presentation.
- Paper Posters → Shipped in durable, protective tubes to prevent creasing.
- Canvas Prints → Carefully wrapped, padded, and boxed to ensure safe delivery.
Our maps look stunning in a variety of settings, including:
- Living rooms and home offices
- Libraries and studies
- Corporate offices and conference rooms
- Restaurants, cafes, and boutique spaces