An absolute gem of an artifact, likely unique and originally displayed at the camp-meeting to be used to introduce visitors and guests to the 1838 camp-meeting to the camp lay-out, rules, etc.,
The 11 x 18 lithograph is entitled "Diagram of Camp Meeting Held at Sing Sing 1838," and provides various details related to the event.
Sections include, "Occupants of New York Tents;" [41 persons] "Joseph Smith's Tents;" [10 persons] "Rules and Orders for the Government of this Camp-Meeting;" an engraving of "New York Tents Arranged by Joseph Smith;" engraving of the Steam Boat Belle under Captain C. Peck; plus details of the General Committee, the Ministers in Charge, etc., These all surrounding a detailed map of the camp, detailing that it accommodates 215 tents and between 7 & 8 thousand persons total [including visitors].
There is a very desirable print by Joseph B. Smith, produced in 1839, of the camp-meetings. It was published and distributed and is very much clamored over when one in a good state comes to the market. This, however, we have not been able to locate a solitary example of and believe it to have been produced for camp use only. It is likely the only surviving example.
It is overall in a good state of preservation, measuring 11 x 18, housed in what is likely its original ebonized frame with pine slat backing and poured glass. As would be expected from a practical item displayed at a camp-meeting, it does show some evidences of damp-staining and one small tear at the center left of the sheet [as shown].
