Mapping Boston for Residents

An Exploration of Boston through Maps: Blending History, Perception, and Imagination

The humble map can reveal far more than just the physical location of things; it can also offer insights into how people perceive and envision the spaces they inhabit. Mapping Boston, a captivating book, brings the history of one of America's oldest and most beautiful cities to life through the maps that have depicted it over the centuries.

The book's collection includes both historical maps of the city and maps charting the gradual emergence of the New England region, from the imaginations of early explorers to a form that would be recognizable today. Each map is accompanied by a detailed description and a short essay, providing valuable context and insights into the people, landmarks, and events that have shaped the landscape and life of Boston.

One of the book's highlights is a series of new maps that meticulously document the city's growth over time. These maps, combined with the historical ones, offer a comprehensive and visually striking exploration of Boston's evolution.

In addition to the maps, the book features seven essays that delve into the intricate relationship between maps and history. Urban historian Sam Bass Warner, Jr. provides a concise history of Boston, while Barbara McCorkle, David Bosse, and David Cobb examine the creation and trade of maps from the 16th to the 19th century.

Historian Nancy S. Seasholes offers a captivating review of Boston's remarkable topographic history as reflected in its maps, and planner Alex Krieger explores the connection between maps and the physical reality of the city, as experienced by residents and visitors.

In a thought-provoking epilogue, novelist James Carroll ponders the place of Boston in contemporary culture and the internal maps we all carry of the cities we inhabit.

Through this multifaceted approach, Mapping Boston presents a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the city's history, revealing how maps can serve as powerful tools for understanding the past, present, and even the future. The book's blend of historical information, visual storytelling, and insightful essays creates a captivating and enlightening read for anyone interested in the intersection of geography, history, and urban development.

Whether you're a longtime resident of Boston or simply fascinated by the rich tapestry of a city's evolution, Mapping Boston offers a unique and illuminating perspective that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the power of cartography and the enduring legacy of this remarkable American city.

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