A diagram of the triangulation for the survey of the coast of the United States made in 1817 and 1833: and the secondary triangles made in 1833 & 1834 in Connecticut & upon Long Island

Image file

Coast Survey triangulation in Connecticut and Long Island

Caption

Library of Congress, Geography and Map Division.

Catalog notes

A network of triangles reveals the framework behind coastal mapping. Instead of concentrating on finished shoreline detail, this diagram shows how survey stations were connected across Connecticut, Long Island and the New York region. It gives readers something concrete to connect with explanations of baselines, angles and control networks. Its plain appearance is part of its appeal: the map exposes the measurement system that made many more familiar maps possible.

Original catalog record, source and attribution