Colin Woodard, who has recently joined The Portland Press Herald’s reporting staff, is the author of “American Nations.” This popular book redraws the American map as 11 rival territories, or nations, each with its unique history and culture.

We asked Woodard if he might similarly redraw the map of Portland, and indicate its various regional territories. He stared at us for a few seconds, and then went back to his typing.

It turns out that we needn’t have bothered Woodard, for such a map already exists, faithfully reproduced here.

Click to enlarge

The original document was found in the city clerk’s office, stuffed behind the stack of dog license applications.

Local historians Herb Adams, Earle Shettleworth Jr. and Orlando Delogu have all examined the original map and vouch for its authenticity. It apparently dates from Portland’s earliest days, and is a valuable tool for understanding better our fair city.