First X, Then Y, Now Z: Landmark Thematic Maps

First X, Then Y, Now Z: Landmark Thematic Maps, an exhibition sponsored by the Special Collections Department, introduces viewers to the early history of thematic mapping — the topical layering (Z) of geographic space (X-Y). Exhibited are early, if not the earliest, thematic maps in various disciplines, such as meteorology, geology, hydrography, natural history, medicine, and sociology/economics. Several groundbreaking exemplars from the fields of ethnography, linguistics, and communication and transportation are included. A few, more conceptual, maps about literary subjects, love/marriage, and utopia extend this thematic cartographic exploration.

The exhibition is scheduled for August 24, 2012 through February 10, 2013 in the Main Exhibition Gallery, Firestone Library. Companion Website.