Historical Map of the State of Minnesota

An all-female production celebrating the history of Minnesota.

This beautiful pictorial map covering the ‘Land of Cloud-Tinted Water’ was copywritten in 1931 by the Minnesota College Women’s Club. It commemorates the rich history of Minnesota by providing a detailed overview of early transportation routes (on water and land), settlement patterns, and major past events.

Text on the left side of the sheet offers a short chronology and further information on the symbols used throughout the image. Illustrated panels at the top showcase the development of transportation and industry, while the bottom presents illustrations of dozens of famous citizens, ranging from the first indigenous inhabitants to Maria Sanford, the first woman to give a commencement address at the university. Also of interest is the profiles of several dinosaurs “before men came to Minnesota” – possibly in support of the theory of evolution?

The map was designed by Barbara Bell, under supervision by Chairman of Research Clare Painter. Printed signatures of both women can be found in the lower right margin. Published in Minneapolis by the Minneapolis Branch of the American Association of University Women.