Original antique 1853 nautical survey map of Cortes Bank, a barely submerged island off the coast of southern California and home to Bishop Rock — today known as a big-wave surfing spot recognized as being capable of producing some of the tallest surfable waves in the world.

• The map is drawn on a scale of 1:10,000, and is based on hydrographic surveys under the direction of Lieutenant James Alden, U.S. Navy.



• The image area measures 37.5 x 28.3 cm [14¾" x 11"], and soundings are expressed in fathoms. Text in the lower corner describes the current as irregular, "frequently setting against the wind with a velocity of nearly two miles an hour, producing a heavy sea which breaks on the bank in heavy weather."



• A sub-sketch in the upper panel shows the area between the bank and the coast, north to Santa Catalina and San Juan Capistrano.



• The map was published in Report of the Superintendent of the Coast Survey, Showing the Progress of the Survey During the Year 1853, printed in Washington, D.C., by Robert Armstrong, Public Printer, 1854.



• The map is titled "Cortez Bank on the Western Coast of the United States." The spelling was later changed to Cortes Bank, which is how it is referenced today in surfing guides and on charts of California's Channel Islands chain.



• Bishop Rock is not labeled on this map. Its precise location on Cortes Bank was determined two years later, and its position is marked today by a nearby warning buoy.



• Navy hydrographer James Alden later served in the Civil War and commanded the steam sloop USS Brooklyn in the Battle of Mobile Bay. In 1871 he was promoted to rear admiral.



• Condition:  This map is in very good condition, bright and clean, with folds, as issued, and no rips, tears, or writing. It is printed on a lightweight paper, typical of mid-19th century government fold-outs, and it is blank on the back, with no printing on the reverse side. Please see the scans and feel free to ask any questions.



• This is an original, authentic antique map, not a reproduction or modern reprint, and it is fully guaranteed to be genuine. It folds to approximately 11" x 8", and we will pack it carefully so it will reach you safely.



• Buy with confidence! We are always happy to combine shipping on the purchase of multiple items — just make sure to pay for everything at one time, not individually.