Ocean Beach / Ocean Bay Park / The Breakers (Fire Island) [Plate 40] by HYDE, Merritt - 1915

Brooklyn, NY: E. Belcher Hyde, 1915. 3 maps on one sheet. Uncolored lithograph. Image measures 15.25 x 25.25". This set of 3 maps on one sheet shows the early Fire Island communities of Ocean Beach, Ocean Bay Park, and the Breakers. Streets, property lines, dwelling locations, and landowners' names are labeled in each area. Each map also has its own small compass rose that complements the graphic quality of the rendering and the decorative border. This double-page plate appeared in Hyde's "Atlas of a Part of Suffolk County, Long Island, New York." It is a dark impression on bright paper and in excellent condition. Small tears to margins not affecting the image. The publishing house of E. Belcher Hyde created maps primarily for the fire insurance industry beginning in the 1890s. While much of their work was concentrated in urban areas such as metropolitan New York, the company also mapped the growing developments on nearby Long Island. Today, these maps are valued as research tools because of their detail and accuracy. As such, they offer fascinating insight into the history of this now densely-populated area. Left in its original uncolored state, this map is a beautiful complement to any collection or decor.