Overview
This remarkable group of five 36x24-inch original tax assessment maps details the historic city layout of Annapolis, Maryland, down to individual property owners and lot boundaries.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This remarkable group of five 36x24-inch original tax assessment maps details the historic city layout of Annapolis, Maryland, down to individual property owners and lot boundaries.
Story
Created in 1967 for official tax assessment in Anne Arundel County, these maps capture historic Annapolis at a specific moment. Individual property owner names, deed book references, and historic lot lines are crisply rendered in blueprint-style blue line print.
Maker / Origin
The Map Division of the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation was tasked with maintaining precise cadastral records for taxation and urban planning across the state. In the pre-digital era of the mid-20th century, cartographers and draftsmen drawn these parcel maps manually, periodically updating them with revisions directly transcribed from county deed books.
Condition & Value
The maps appear remarkably well-preserved with light edge curling and minor handling creases along the margins. The blue line printing remains crisp and vibrant without significant sun-fading or major tears. Framing or archival flat storage will preserve their current clean condition.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.