Explore Berkeley's Past: Five Vintage Maps from UC Berkeley's Earth Sciences & Map Library
Go back in time with these five vintage Berkeley maps
University Of California, Berkeley
Image: University Of California, Berkeley
UC Berkeley's Earth Sciences & Map Library offers a collection of vintage maps that reveal the historical evolution of the campus and city. These maps, ranging from a 1910 tree survey to a 2002 bear-spotting guide, provide unique insights into Berkeley's landscape and community over the years.
- 01The Earth Sciences & Map Library at UC Berkeley showcases a variety of vintage maps.
- 02Maps reveal not just geography but also the stories and choices behind their creation.
- 03A 1910 campus map highlights the university's early arboreal landscape.
- 04A 1985 cartoon-style map captures the vibrant business scene of Berkeley during the big-hair era.
- 05The 1962 Long Range Development Plan illustrates UC Berkeley's ambitious vision for its future.
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The Earth Sciences & Map Library at UC Berkeley presents an exciting collection of vintage maps that invite exploration and discovery. According to Karen Pfeffer, the library's circulation supervisor, handling these original maps offers a unique thrill, as they represent authentic historical artifacts. Susan Powell, the GIS and map librarian, emphasizes that these maps encourage students to view them as subjective artifacts shaped by human choices rather than mere representations of geography. Among the selected maps is a 1910 hand-drawn campus map that meticulously charts the trees on campus, reflecting the university's early environmental landscape. Another notable piece is a 1985 colorful map depicting local businesses, evoking nostalgia for the era. The 1962 Long Range Development Plan showcases UC Berkeley's vision for future development, revealing both realized and unrealized projects. Lastly, a 2002 walking tour map invites visitors to hunt for bear-themed decorations scattered across the campus, turning exploration into a fun scavenger hunt. Each map captures a unique aspect of Berkeley's history, providing a window into its past and ongoing evolution.
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These vintage maps not only serve as educational tools but also foster a deeper appreciation for Berkeley's historical landscape among students and visitors.
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