What it does
The David Rumsey Historical Map Collection provides searchable maps and atlases with a LUNA viewer, text-on-map search, georeferencing and globe views.
Compare maps of the same place across dates to investigate changing boundaries, labels or cartographic choices. Text-on-map search can reveal a name inside an image, while collection categories help locate a particular map type. Note the map's creator and publication date before interpreting what it shows.
The permissions page allows many publication uses without charge, but standalone facsimiles for sale need permission. Maps without a download button have tighter conditions, and surviving third-party copyright still needs checking. Keep the requested collection credit with any permitted reproduction.
Sources
- David Rumsey Historical Map Collection | The Collection (Oct 26, 2026)
- David Rumsey Historical Map Collection | Copyright and Permissions (Oct 26, 2026)