Comparative Cartography: Understanding Place and History Through Historic Maps

Joanna Salv0 looking at map related objects

At the opening of the exhibit A Sense of Place: Exploring Newport and Narragansett Bay through Historic Maps at Newport's Redwood Library, a selection of important maps reflecting the perceptions and uses of these geographical entities over time, viewers entered a strange, somewhat unfamiliar two-dimensional universe. Aligned with contemporary interests, the maps were artfully hung in the Van Alen Gallery.

Attendees at the opening reception were introduced to issues and historical perspectives on ownership, exploitation of natural resources, strategies of warfare, navigation, and tourism, in our area, all through maps, which are truly works of art, giving entirely new perspectives. From the remarkable depiction "Plan de la position de l'Armee francoise par Mr. de Rochambeau" (1784) to the original "Names of Indian Places in Rhode Island" by G. Gordon King (c. 1875), the intricate work of the cartographers was much admired and commented upon.

Sarah and Tony Gill enjoying the exhibition

The Redwood Library collaborated with guest curator Christina Connett of the Rhode Island School of Design and the University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain, who worked with with The Redwood Library to create the unique exhibition. She spoke briefly to guests after President of the Board of Directors, Dr. Garry Fischer, offered a welcome from a snowy evening.

In addition to the display in the Redwood's Van Alen Gallery, display cases in the Rovensky Room contained books and historical items supporting the exhibit.

John Busan and Garry Fischer, President of the Redwood Library

Board of Directors

On hand were Angela Fischer, Redwood Director Kenneth Brockway and his wife Marilyn, Whitney D. Pape, who also spoke, Rod O'Hanley, Richard Crisson, Margot and Richard Grosvenor, Linda Gordon, and Tony and Sarah Gill, who carefully studied the maps and books, and partook of wine and cheese served in the Reading Room. A Sense of Place will run through December 29, 2011.