Introduction
The University of Texas Map Collection is one of the most extensive map collections in the world, with over 250,000 maps and more than 5,000 atlases. These maps cover a wide range of topics, including historical maps, topographic maps, geologic maps, and more. In this blog post, we will explore the University of Texas Map Collection in 2023 and learn more about its history, collections, and how it can be used for research and education.
A Brief History of the University of Texas Map Collection
The University of Texas Map Collection was founded in 1898, with the donation of 800 maps from the private collection of William J. Battle, a professor of law at the university. Over the years, the collection has grown significantly through donations and acquisitions, and now includes maps from all over the world. In 2019, the collection was moved to a new state-of-the-art facility, which provides better storage and access to the maps.
The Collections
The University of Texas Map Collection is divided into several categories, including historical maps, topographic maps, geologic maps, and thematic maps. The historical maps collection includes maps from the 16th century to the present day, covering a wide range of topics such as colonization, exploration, and war. The topographic maps collection includes maps of the United States and other countries, showing the physical features of the land. The geologic maps collection includes maps of the earth’s crust and the distribution of minerals and rocks. The thematic maps collection includes maps of population, climate, transportation, and more.
Research and Education
The University of Texas Map Collection is an invaluable resource for researchers and educators. The collection can be used to study the history of cartography, the development of geographic knowledge, and the impact of maps on society. It can also be used to study the physical features of the earth, geology, and land use. The collection is available for use by students, faculty, and researchers, as well as by the general public.
Using the University of Texas Map Collection
To use the University of Texas Map Collection, you can start by searching the online catalog, which provides access to over 80% of the collection. You can also visit the map room, located in the Perry-Castañeda Library, where you can view and study the maps in person. The map room is open to the public and provides access to a variety of resources, including reference materials, scanners, and GIS software.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the University of Texas Map Collection is a treasure trove of information and resources for anyone interested in the history of cartography, geography, geology, and more. With its extensive collections and state-of-the-art facilities, the University of Texas Map Collection is poised to continue to be a valuable resource for researchers and educators for many years to come.
References:
– University of Texas Libraries. “Maps.” Retrieved from https://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/ – University of Texas Libraries. “Map Collection.” Retrieved from https://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/about/collection.html