Whether you’re researching family history, local history, or world history, maps play a critical role in helping us discover where people lived and the context of their lives. The resources on this page give you the tools you need.
Local & State
Edwards’ Atlas of McPherson County (1884)
Plat Book of McPherson County (1903)
Standard Atlas of McPherson County (1921)
Ownership Map (including oil and gas wells) of McPherson County (1937)
Atlas of McPherson County (1969)
McPherson County Mapping Office Subdivsion Plats
Includes original General Land Office surveys.
Everts State Atlas of Kansas (1887)
Kansas Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps
These detailed maps of 241 Kansas towns and cities from 1883 to the 1930’s were digitized and are made available by the University of Kansas.
National
Atlas of Historical County Boundaries
An award-winning site from the Newberry Library which includes comprehensive interactive maps of states, their counties and changes in their boundaries.
Map of US
Provides county formation maps but in a different format.
Historic Map Works
A commercial site with an impressive selection of maps, as well as a powerful search engine. Their collection of old county atlases is particularly useful. Free to view.
Sanborn Map Keys & Colors
A guide prepared by the Library of Congress to guide researchers in understanding the various symbols and colors found in Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps.
National & International
David Rumsey Map Collection
A tremendous collection! Each map is available for download in several sizes for free.
Library of Congress Maps
Some 34,000 maps, most from the United States. Easy to search and view.
mapchart.net
Create and customize maps from the U.S. and all over the world to use in your research, presentations, or family history books.
randymajors.com Research Hub
Allows you to customize Google Maps with county lines, section-township-range grids, and other features. Free to use; a donation buys you full screen map display and no ads.
Without geography, you’re nowhere! ~ Jimmy Buffett
