VSU Archives Debuts Rare Maps Collection in Odum Library

VALDOSTA — A collection of rare maps from the 18^th and 19^th centuries is now on display in Valdosta State University’s Odum Library.

The Thomas F. and Janice C. F. Armstrong Antique Map Collection contains French, Italian, English, German, and American maps that depict the growth of the southern states of America and Georgia specifically. Map dates range from 1760 to 1870. 

A subset of the collection is on loan to Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections from Georgia College and State University for the next several months. 

“Through these maps, you get to see a progression of the way Georgia and the United States has changed over time,” said Deborah Davis, director of VSU Archives and Special Collections. “You can tell a lot about changes in history from looking at old maps, and that’s important. It’s important to know where we came from and to study how people looked at the world back then.

“And these maps are not just utility. They’re also beautiful, aesthetic works of art. We’re very grateful to Georgia College and State University for loaning them to us.”

The rare maps collection is located in Odum Library’s rotating gallery on the first floor.

Contact Deborah Davis at 229-259-7756 or dsdavis@valdosta.edu to learn more.