A Pic-Tour Map of Glacier National Park in the Montana Rockies
Print / Cartographic Illustration on paper • Attributed to Bloodgood 'Jitter' Hopkins (Pic-Tour Map Company).
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Illustrative Cartography (often termed 'Pictorial Maps' or 'Tourist Art').
Medium & Technique
Color lithograph or offset lithography printing on paper, likely mounted or framed behind glass. The technique employs flat color washes and cartoon-style line work common in mid-century illustrative maps.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century, likely circa 1950s-1960s based on the typography, color palette, and 'Pic-Tour' branding.
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 18 x 24 inches or 24 x 30 inches; Landscape orientation.
Subject Description
A highly detailed, stylized bird's-eye view map of Glacier National Park (Montana) and Waterton Lakes National Park (Canada). It features landmarks like the Prince of Wales Hotel, Lake McDonald, and Swiftcurrent. The composition includes illustrated mountain peaks, lakes, roads, and flora/fauna symbols, alongside explanatory text boxes about the park's history and geography.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The colors appear somewhat muted or sepia-toned, which could be intentional design or light-induced yellowing (acidic toning) of the paper.
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $350 USD (depending on the specific printing edition and paper condition).
Auction Estimate
$75 - $200 USD.
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a souvenir or promotional item from the National Park service or a nearby lodge. No specific owner labels visible, though the framing suggests long-term residential display.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the post-WWII boom in American road trip culture and 'National Park-iana.' These maps were instrumental in marketing the American West's 'unspoiled' nature through approachable, whimsical graphic design.
Notable Features
Includes a distinctive 'compass rose' design and the specific 'Pic-Tour' branding which identifies it as part of a series of regional maps produced for travelers in the 20th century.
Condition Issues
Potential UV light damage resulting in faded reds and yellows; possible acidity issues from the wood frame back if it is not archival-grade; minor warping of the paper surface visible in the glare.
Conservation Recommendations
Re-frame using acid-free archival matting and UV-protective museum glass. Ensure it is kept out of direct sunlight to prevent further color degradation.