Map Collection
The map collection features a wide variety of maps, spanning a period of time from the early 16th century through the later part of the 20th century. The collection of approximately 3,000 maps, range from cartographic examples illustrating the early exploration of the Pacific Northwest to late 20th century highway maps distributed primarily to tourists. The geographic area covered includes the Pacific Northwest, with western Washington and the Puget Sound area representing the largest holding.
Of special interest are 300 early maps depicting North America and the western hemisphere, dating from 1600 - 1850, which document the history of the cartographic description of the North Pacific Ocean and the Pacific Northwest. Other more recent maps illustrate the importance of tourism and the extraction of natural resources in the economic development of specific cities and regions in Washington, and the state as a whole.
Additional Information:
Washington Secretary of State Historical Maps - The State Archives and the State Library hold extensive map collections dealing with the Washington State and the surrounding region. Maps for this digital collection will be drawn from state and territorial government records, historic books, federal documents and the Northwest collection.
Early Washington Maps: Digital Collection - This cooperative WSU and UW project is the largest collection of internet accessible early Washington maps.
Washington State Dept. of Natural Resources - The Washington State Dept. of Natural Resources(Olympia) is another resource to view digital copies of early Washington Territory/State GLO survey maps and the associated original field notes. Telephone: 360-902-1004
U. S. Geological Survey Library - Access to over 300,000 book, map, and serial records in the U.S. Geological Survey Library online catalog. Includes information on library borrowing policies, locations, and a link to ASK-A-LIBRARIAN, an electronic reference service.
U.S. Coast Survey Maps - The primary source for U.S. Coast Survey Maps (both historic and current) and other early harbor and coastal exploration maps (including: Vancouver and Wilkes Exploration Maps). Many maps have been digitized and are internet accessible.
For more information:
NOAA Western Regional Center Library (Seattle)
Pacific Northwest Region
Telephone: 206-526-6241
U.S. National Atlas - Note: the government agency responsible for distributing and updating national census and geographic information (previously known as the Statistical Atlas of the United States). The latest edition of the National Atlas can be searched by subject and geographic area, and paper copies of selected maps can be either printed on-line or purchased.
American Memory Map Collection - The Geography and Map Division of the Library of Congress holds more than 4.5 million items.
U.S. General Land Office Survey Plat Maps
Bureau of Land Management (Portland)
Telephone: 503 808-6001
Note: The primary source for General Land Office survey maps, mining claims, and public land plat maps. Many maps have been digitized and are internet accessible.