The History of America can be presented in a number of ways. Through the written word, through documents, or through pictorial means (paintings, engravings, photographs). To Barry Greenlaw's mind one of the best ways to see the development of this country – both physically and historically – is through the study of period maps.

Over 4 weekly sessions, we will look at the development of America (after 1776 the United States) from Columbus until today, through the “eyes” of hundreds of historical maps, many of them works of art as well as science. Produced by the great cartographers of the world – the maps themselves draw on information supplied by noted travelers and explorers.

In this course on the Mapping of America, we will address 4 broad topics, 4 periods, each of which was seminal in the discovery and growth of the country, in which the production and availability of maps played an important part. From the Vikings and Christopher Columbus to George Washington and Stephen F. Austin, maps were critical to discovering new lands, new countries and new states.

Four-Week Course Schedule | Mondays
Mar 20 | 10:00 AM | DISCOVERING AMERICA – THE EARLIEST MAPS

Mar 27 | 10:00 AM | CALIFORNIA AS AN ISLAND, AND OTHER MAPPING MYTHS

Apr 03 | 10:00 AM | MAPPING THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Apr 10 | 10:00 AM | MAPPING TEXAS - FROM DISCOVERY TO THE REPUBLIC (AND BEYOND)

This class will be held in-person at WIH and simulcast via Zoom