Published only eight years after Montana achieved statehood, this depiction of the iconic region shows it in a period of significant growth, transformation, and prosperity. The Homestead Act of 1862 offered free land to any settler who could establish farms or ranches on up to 160 acres. By the 1880s, the state capital, Helena, had more millionaires than any other American city. The Desert Land Act of 1877 further increased settlement throughout the state as eager immigrants could get up to 640 acres of land for twenty-five cents per acre. This attracted scores of cattle and sheep ranchers, which would become one of the most prominent economic drivers for Montana for the following century.As the nation neared the turn of the century, the establishment of a complete railroad system was almost complete, and this expansion of access and ease of transportation allowed more immigrants to reach the remote state to start small communities based around agricultural exports. Montana did not see settlement begin until the 1850s and remains one of the most sparsely populated regions in the United States. The region was first officially recognized as the eastern portion of the Oregon Territory, which was established in 1848. One of the most notable natural spaces in the United States, Yellowstone National Park, was created in 1872 and draws thousands of tourists annually. This map bears a distinctive aesthetic and classic style that immediately transports the viewer back in time, creating an indelible bond between the past and present.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.
