A New Era for Historical Maps
OldInsuranceMaps.net has entered the prestigious realm of OpenStreetMap US's charter projects, marking a pivotal moment for those interested in historical mapping. If you're passionate about the history of American cities, you might recall the Sanborn insurance maps. These documents are treasures of geographical information, preserving details from 1867 to the 1960s.
What are Sanborn Maps?
Sanborn maps were created to help insurance companies assess fire risks in American cities. Today, they serve as a valuable reference for researchers and historians, providing a detailed view of urban evolution. With OldInsuranceMaps.net, over 1,200 Sanborn maps, primarily sourced from the Library of Congress, are accessible online.
A Project Born from Passion
Adam Cox launched OldInsuranceMaps.net in 2022 at Louisiana State University. Since then, the project has drawn a diverse community ranging from local history enthusiasts to urban redevelopment professionals. The platform allows any user to request the addition of their city's Sanborn maps, which can then be georeferenced for in-depth exploration.
Technology and Collaboration
The platform is a perfect example of the blend between historical archiving, open-source technology, and shared knowledge. With an intuitive interface, even novices in geography or GIS can partake in the georeferencing process, placing ground control points and digitally stitching each page.
Real Impact
The impact of this project is immense. Not only does it preserve urban history, but it also provides valuable tools for redevelopment projects and research. Sanborn maps thus become instruments for planning and decision-making for urban planners and policymakers.
The Importance of Charter Projects
Becoming a charter project under OpenStreetMap US enhances the credibility and impact of OldInsuranceMaps.net, paving the way for more collaborations and funding. This ensures the platform's sustainability and continuous improvement.
Conclusion
OldInsuranceMaps.net is not just about preserving the past; it is shaping the future of historical mapping. This project is a model of innovation and collaboration, and its integration into OpenStreetMap US's charter projects marks the beginning of a new era for access to historical data.
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