We are excited to announce that we have partnered with California State University Fresno to create the “California Map and Aerial Digitization Project” to digitize archival maps and aerial photographs. Our digitization project work is ongoing and additional maps will be added to the collection in the coming months.
Map Collection
These maps reference California’s geography from the late 19th century to the late 20th century. During the 20th century, California’s population grew exponentially, from approximately 1.5 million to 34 million. Much of the State looks dramatically different than it did 100 years ago. These maps provide essential information and insight into California’s historical physical features, environmental changes, and geographic boundaries.
Aerial Collection
These aerials are black and white, color, vertical, and oblique aerial photographs taken of different flights. These photographs were taken at a variety of latitudes, angles, elevations, and directions, making the collection a huge assortment of unique historical shots. These aerial photographs depict lands that the commission manages, coastal areas and navigable lakes and rivers throughout the state. The focus of these photographs is waterways throughout California.