Maryland Map Collection
Scope:The Maryland Map Collection is a comprehensive collection or more than 2,500 map titles depicting Maryland, the Chesapeake Bay, and the surrounding region. Primary access to this collection is through the collection inventory, Maps of Maryland, (view pdf version) which is available in the Maryland Room and the McKeldin Reference stacks. An electronic version of this guide is in a searchable database also located in the Maryland Room. Some maps in the collection are also described on the library's online catalog.
The collection includes such noteworthy maps as the first map to depict the Chesapeake Bay, published in 1590 as a result of Sir Walter Raleigh's expedition. Other highlights include John Ogilby's 1671 Nova terrae-Maria tabulae, the earliest map that shows the counties of Maryland, and Dennis Griffith's 1795 landmark map of Maryland, the most detailed and accurate map of its time. In addition, the Department holds an extensive collection of Sanborn Fire Insurance maps, including both the original and microfilm copies. These highly detailed maps, published during the period of 1870 to 1950, show every structure in the central portion of many cities and towns throughout the state. Maps produced by local governments can be found here, and the collection supports the study of Maryland's border disputes and document the development of the state.
Email the subject area specialist or call (301)405-9210 for more information.
Relevant Links
- Photoduplication Services
- Maryland Maps: A Finding Aid
- Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps of Maryland
- Selected Bibliography of Sources Pertaining to Maryland Maps
Last Revised: May 2006
