Combing map archive and library collections throughout North America and Europe, Derek Hayes has unearthed a treasure trove of many seldom-seen maps. His narratives bring the stories of each map, and the new territories it reveals, compellingly and perceptively alive.

Hayes’ reach is comprehensive, and all of what is now the continental United States is freshly seen through the eyes of those who first encountered a wild new frontier. The final spread summarizes ongoing modern scientific exploration, and is followed by a detailed map catalogue.

Over the past seven years, Hayes has compiled a critically acclaimed series of historical atlases that have become best-sellers in their own right. Historical Atlas of the Pacific Northwest sold 30,000 copies throughout North America and Historical Atlas of Canada sold 10,000 copies.