Historical Maps-Is it just me?

[NapervilleDan]

Or are these addicting?

I find it very interesting to look at maps from the past. Previously, I had seen a video on YouTube about the Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps. Very cool.

Today I found another video which has a very helpful feature which overlays the newer maps. Historicmapworks.com

Unfortunately, I'm in Illinois, so I'll have to wait for better weather.

I've found some forested areas that used to have homesteads on them. I'm a little psyched to go exploring. I'm definitely going to be keeping some notes be prepare for the warm months here. Maybe even printout a few maps.

Cheers,

Dan

 

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[mindcrime1988]

I do lots of research from old maps as well. They can be quite informative. Another site you might want to check out is Historicaerials where the user is able to switch between satellite and topos and then toggle the various years as well.

 

[smallfoot]

Geological surveys show lots of info also!

 

[Gene Mean]

The old maps are very cool and helpful. Don't wait too long to get into the woods, things will start growing again soon.

 

[teleprospector]

Yes! You're on the right track! There are some sites and apps/programs that let you overlay the old maps over current aerials or the other way around! It really speeds up
your research letting you see up to date potential search sites. We still use a Xerox and clear sheets to scale the old plat maps over the aerials, that works but takes awhile.
Jon

 

[Tiredman]

I use topo maps of different years and scale for researching lost treasure stories and some go into the finished books. Some might be interested to know ghost town sites appear on them.