The history of the United States has been
well documented through maps since the first appearance of America (labeled
Terra Incgognita) in Martin Waldseemuller’s Strasbourg edition of the Ptolemy
Atlas in 1513. Our extensive collection of historical maps includes maps that
illustrate the earliest formations of states and regions as well as maps that
depict battles fought during the American Revolution and the Civil War.
Panoramic maps of American cities and towns, often called bird’s-eye views or
perspective maps, offer a glimpse into the life of a town or city that is
“frozen-in-time”, capturing the town as it appeared from an elevated
perspective, and often listing prominent businesses and residents. Spanning most
of the 19th century, cartographic artists such as Thaddeus Mortimer Fowler,
Oakley H. Bailey and Albert Ruger provided maps that served to promote a city’s
commercial and residential potential, often featuring architectural renderings
of public and commercial establishments, as well as private homes. These maps
stand as a testament to American ambition and hope as a newly created nation
faced their bright future.
We are constantly working to expand our collection
of historic maps. Please revisit often to see what’s new.
Historical Maps of Individual States by Name: |
