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Scanning and georeferencing historical USGS quadrangles

Fact Sheet 2017-3048
By: , , and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20173048

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Abstract

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) National Geospatial Program is scanning published USGS 1:250,000-scale and larger topographic maps printed between 1884, the inception of the topographic mapping program, and 2006. The goal of this project, which began publishing the Historical Topographic Map Collection in 2011, is to provide access to a digital repository of USGS topographic maps that is available to the public at no cost. For more than 125 years, USGS topographic maps have accurately portrayed the complex geography of the Nation. The USGS is the Nation’s largest producer of traditional topographic maps, and, prior to 2006, USGS topographic maps were created using traditional cartographic methods and printed using a lithographic process. The next generation of topographic maps, US Topo, is being released by the USGS in digital form, and newer technologies make it possible to also deliver historical maps in the same electronic format that is more publicly accessible.

Suggested Citation

Fishburn, K.A., Davis, L.R., and Allord, G.J., 2017, Scanning and georeferencing historical USGS quadrangles: U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet 2017–3048, 2 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20173048.

ISSN: 2327-6932 (online)

ISSN: 2327-6916 (print)

Table of Contents

  • Historical Topographic Map Benefits
  • The USGS National Geospatial Program
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Scanning and georeferencing historical USGS quadrangles
Series title Fact Sheet
Series number 2017-3048
DOI 10.3133/fs20173048
Year Published 2017
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) National Geospatial Program
Description 2 p.
Online Only (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details