Redick H. McKee (1864-1949) was born in Louisiana and spent his childhood in Washington, D.C. As a young man, Mr. McKee entered the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and was sent to the Sierra Nevadas and other parts of California. In 1892, McKee established the USGS office in Seattle, and remained a resident of the city until his death.

The map pictured here, created by Redick McKee, is purportedly the first topographical map of Seattle, showing details of roads and graded streets, as well as the positions of principal dwellings and prominent buildings. A key identifies "Good, or well traveled" roads, "Poor or slightly traveled" roads, and the suburban railroad. McKee prepared many of the USGS's regional maps of the area.

Text on map: McKee's Correct Road Map of Seattle and Vicinity, Washington, U.S.A. 1894, Made and Drawn by Redick H. McKee, Topographer - U.S. Geological Survey and Alexander M. Reynolds, U.S. Deputy Surveyor, Showing details of roads and graded streets and positions of principal dwellings and prominent buildings

Caption information source: "Redick McKee, First Seattle Map Maker, Dies," The Seattle Times, January 1, 1950, p.18.