A topographical map of the Province of New Hampshire, 1784

This rare map of New Hampshire was prepared from surveys by Samuel Holland - famed engineer who entered British service during the French and Indian War (1754-1763). The map depicts New Hampshire in great detail, illustrating rivers, streams, lakes, elevations, township boundaries, roads, and structures. Two great arcs delineate the boundary of a parcel known as "Mason's Curve." The parcel, owned by John Mason (1586-1635), was originally located between the Merrimack and Kennebeck Rivers, however in 1748 was sold by one of Mason's descendants to twelve investors from Portsmouth. It is believed these investors commissioned the surveys in 1768-69 to more accurately locate the boundary of the landholding.