Bill Skacel’s Cartoon Map of Ohio

Bill Skacel’s distinctive pictorial map of Ohio.

One of several characteristic state maps designed in the late 1940’s and early 1950’s by artist Bill Skacel, this Ohio example similarly utilizes cartoonish illustrations, bright colors (notably yellow and green), and speech bubbles to promote the Buckeye state. Historic sites and figures, industrial and agricultural milestones, architecture and natural resources are all on display.

A number of figures in humorous situations (note the motorist in the lower left) add a lighthearted appeal to the map’s image. Designed to be folded and mailed as a postcard, with area for notes, texts, and color photo illustrations on the verso.