Historic Geologic Map And The First Mapmakers

By Matthew Perry


When it comes to maps, there are many different types. In one case, a geologic map has nothing to do with travel. For, this type of map refers locations of interest based on geological aspects of different areas, such as that of fossils and rocks. As such, this type of map differs greatly from that of a road atlas or maps used by GPS systems.

In geological maps, geologic strata and data are shown by colors, symbols and other markings which are often measured from the surface. For example, data such as folds, faults, lineages and plunges are often marked with a dip or strike. In most cases, objects marked with dips and strikes tend to render a three dimensional aspect on geographical maps.

Locating and marking the surface can often be a bit more difficult. Still, doing so can often be accomplished by using contour lines to illustrate the surface and subsurface and topographic trends. Whereas, it is important when doing so, to calculate measurements carefully based on a number of factors. These factors often include, bedrock, backfill, topsoil and related factors.

The Turin Papyrus which has been well preserved is considered to be the oldest geological map in the world. For, the map dates back to 1150 BCE and shows the deposits of gold and stone from locations in Egypt. As such, the map has been one of the most interesting finds in the history of archaeology, geography, geology and history.

In 1771, another geological map of importance was found which shows parts of Auyergne. In this case, the map was made out of basalt with the mapmakers having used balls, prisms and other items to denote different locations which were rich in various types of rock formations. While there were most likely maps created between 1150 BCE and 1771, this map is still considered the first of its kind to be found in the modern era.

The first map of this kind to be developed in the United States was created and developed by William Maclure in 1809. Maclure traversed and surveyed what was then the entire country before creating the map. After which, the map resulted in one which denoted the location and types of geological settings in each and every state of the Union at the time.

The journey which Maclure took to survey and research different areas of the United States took the surveyor across the Allegheny mountains more than fifty times. One outcome of these crossings, a map denoting findings of five classes of rocks which now are believed to only exist in the Eastern states of what is now present-day America.

While most all geological maps are similar to the first one created by Maclure, many are now superimposed over topographical maps with a letter, symbol and color mark to describe the type of geological aspects in the area. While the color relates to the exposure of the bedrock from the surface, symbols are often used to show fossils, fault lines and other data. As such, these maps are used in a number of different areas including marine biology, geology, history, topology and earthquake sciences.




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