New Cartographic Materials in the Ball State University Libraries

Strange Maps and Cartographic Curiosities Featured in Ball State University Libraries

The Ball State University Libraries’ GIS Research and Map Collection (GRMC) is constantly adding new materials to its collection to provide interesting and useful resources for research and learning. One of the newest materials available is Strange Maps: An Atlas of Cartographic Curiosities by Frank Jacobs. This atlas is described an “an intriguing collection of more than one hundred out-of-the-ordinary maps, blending art, history, and pop culture for a unique atlas of humanity.

This new atlas begins with historical maps created inaccurately or with misconceptions—for example, California as an island. A section of literary-themed maps includes a map of the world in 1984 according to the George Orwell novel. Hand-drawn maps relate the art of cartography. Maps depicting historical events, political parodies, and maps as propaganda are also featured.

Other interesting maps include “Eisenhower’s Interstate System,” “Europe, If the Nazis Had Won,” and “If Land Was Sea and Sea Was Land.” An entire section of the atlas is devoted to maps of Manhattan. The map featured above (click to enlarge) was painted by Aaron Meshon as “NYiCy,” as a wrap around a children’s magazine featuring his favorite ice cream treats in the city.

Strange Maps is available in the GRMC Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 4:30 P.M. For more information, please contact the staff of the GRMC at 765-285-1097.