Putting California on the Map

When A.W. von Schmidt lived in California, from 1849 through 1906, the young state developed a reputation as a society of innovators and energetic problem-solvers. Von Schmidt's life story is at the core of the "anything is possible" legend that became associated with California and its citizens. He was a surveyor and civil engineer, an involved citizen of San Francisco, a father and husband, and a pioneer whose personal triumphs and tragedies enlarged the California Dream. A.W.'s energetic efforts to give shape to California, to devise long-distance water delivery systems and astonishingly creative engineering solutions for challenges faced by the young state, have been nearly forgotten. This biography is the first comprehensive telling of his life and of his leadership in the shaping of 19th century California. Includes 45 photos and sketches, and 13 maps. Honored as an Award-Winning Finalist in the History: United States category of the 2020 International Book Awards. "An impressive amount of research fuels PUTTING CALIFORNIA ON THE MAP, a biography of little-known California pioneer Allexey Von Schmidt. Great insight for historians and state fans to understand the life and work of early West Coast settlers." August 7, 2018 IndieReader Discovery Awards 2019 /by IR Staff California State Library Book of the Week, September 5, 2018: "Author David Carle uses letters, newspapers and other primary sources to map the life of the man who charted California's meridian lines in the Eastern Sierra. Walking over mountains, hacking through brush and even sketching waterfalls, this pioneering surveyor literally took California's measure and documented every step of the way. If you love maps, engineers, backpacking or successful professionals this is the book for you!"