*Note: On the bottom panel, there is an “Open Map” option. In there, you will be able to see my map. Click on it to apply it and interact with it. (You may have to sign in to ArcGIS to have access.)
Introduction
In this project, I georeferenced Walling and Gray’s 1871 map of the United States. I aimed to tell a story by looking at a map from over 150 years ago. Hopefully, by noticing the differences between Walling and Gray’s map and a contemporary map, you will be able to interpret the drastic changes the United States has undergone in the last few centuries. I added feature layers to the map to highlight the significant differences between the old and modern maps. I am delighted with the results of the map as I believe it tells an interesting story about US history.
Sources
The dataset I used was retrieved from Allmaps Editor. Specifically, the maps were provided by the Leventhal Map & Education Center. I chose this specific map from the many maps provided. Throughout the process of this project, I used Allmaps Editor, ArcGIS, and WordPress/cPanel.
Processes
This project took some research. The map itself did not provide immense context. I did some outside research to understand the significance of this map, which I will dive into in the significance section. I first used Allmaps to georeference the map, aligning points from the old map to a new map. Then, I used ArcGIS to adjust the transparency and general look of the map. I also added a feature layer that highlights important areas on the map. I then published my new map as an interactive app and used HTML to embed it on the website I created.
Presentation
I chose a simple theme for this map’s presentation. This is because I want all of the focus on the map itself, which is the culmination of my project. The map itself provides the knowledge and insight, so I wanted to make sure the website wouldn’t take away from that. I generally appreciate simplistic websites that get straight to the point, so I tried to replicate that feel.
Significance
I want to highlight the essential takeaways from the map. The polygon features show two examples of states that were different in 1871. The area that is now North Dakota and South Dakota is shown as a single territory called “Dakota”. The region that is now Oklahoma was still labeled as “Indian Territory,” a designated area for Native American tribes. The line you can see cutting across the US from West to East is the new transcontinental rail route, which was seen as crucial for the country’s development and connectivity. Lastly, the two points highlight two of the many military fortifications on the map, which we would not see on a current map. By digitally showcasing this map — specifically by geo-referencing it —it is easier to emphasize the differences between it and a modern one. It also allows you to interact with it, zooming in to identify core elements. Rather than just data science, this project combines history with digital techniques, earning the label “digital humanities.”
Problems and Pitfalls
A major potential pitfall of this digital technique is the ability to alter the map. This ability to visually change history can have dangerous consequences. As we learned, any map created has inherent biases and an intended story from its creators. There is potential for a story to be false or created to sow chaos. Now, I want to touch on my personal difficulties with this project. I found that some specific apps within ArcGIS were not compatible with WordPress. That is, I would embed the HTML into WordPress, and it would refuse to connect. I spent a long time troubleshooting before I was finally able to properly embed my map.