Title: Tinted Lithograph of Old Fort Walla Walla, 1856
Description: This remarkable lithograph, "Old Fort Walla Walla," provides a vivid depiction of one of the key outposts in the Pacific Northwest during the mid-19th century. Published as General Report – Plate XLII in the Pacific Railroad Exploration Survey reports of 1856, the scene showcases the fort nestled amidst the dramatic cliffs and mesas of the region.
The foreground features Native American teepees and figures engaging in daily activities, emphasizing the area's cultural significance. The fort structures, including wooden cabins and defensive walls, highlight its role as a hub for trade, settlement, and exploration. The striking cliffs in the background frame the scene, creating a dramatic juxtaposition between human activity and the vast, untamed landscape.
Created by the esteemed lithographers Sarony, Major & Knapp, this tinted lithograph is an exquisite blend of artistry and documentation. The warm, earthy tones and fine details bring the scene to life, capturing both the rugged beauty of the terrain and the historical importance of Fort Walla Walla as a crossroads of cultures and commerce.
Additional info: Old Fort Walla Walla is in Washington State.
Historical Context: The original Fort Walla Walla was a Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) fur trading post, established in 1818 near the confluence of the Walla Walla River and Columbia River. It was located near present-day Wallula, Washington, south of what is now Walla Walla, Washington. This HBC post was abandoned in 1855 due to increasing tensions with local Native American tribes. U.S. Military Fort Walla Walla (1856): A new Fort Walla Walla was established by the U.S. Army in 1856 a few miles east of the original site. It was located near modern-day downtown Walla Walla, Washington. The fort played a key role in military campaigns during the Indian Wars of the Pacific Northwest and later served as a supply base. Present-Day Site: The historic fort is now part of Fort Walla Walla Park, which includes a museum, reconstructed military buildings, and historical exhibits.
Condition: Good, with minimal foxing in the margins. The image is sharp, and the colors are vibrant and well-preserved. A few small pinholes in the title and top, outside the image.
Framing Tip: Pair this lithograph with a matte in soft beige or light brown to complement its warm tones. A classic wooden or antique-style frame will enhance its historical charm, making it a perfect centerpiece for a study, gallery wall, or history-themed collection.
Bartele Gallery. Original antique maps, sea charts, engravings and works on paper. This is a plain text rendering of a page that is otherwise built in the browser. The catalogue index is at https://www.bartele.net/catalogue and machine readable notes are at https://www.bartele.net/llms.txt.