Explore the colorful world of historic atlases and maps from the New Jersey Room's collection. Each week during our Summer Learning Program we will highlight a rarely seen item.

For the final week of our Map Monday series, we present the oldest item of the series, A General Atlas Describing the Whole Universe, which has a publication date of 1782 listed on the title page. While one rare book sites says that the title overstates the subject a bit, the collection is notable for being one of the first modern atlases that cover the entire globe rather than just one country. A map of the moon and a star chart are also included. 

Despite the date listed on the title page, our copy includes an 1873 addition that is noteworthy for being the first published map of the United States following the 1783 Treaty of Paris which officially ended the American Revolution. The collection also features decorative cartouches, illustrations surrounding the title blocks, on most maps. These depictions of peoples and places outside of Europe reflect the sensibilities of the time and place in which they were made. 

While the David Rumsey collection has a 1790 edition available digitally, we are proud to provide a rare chance to view these maps in person. 

Visit the New Jersey Room any day of the week (except Sunday!) or follow our social media posts for more information.