History of mapping and surveying of land in Queensland
Oblique of Brisbane, 1888
"Maps and charts intrude into the very fabric of peoples' lives, whether or not they are aware of it. Our society does not build, bury, move or plan, travel, navigate, teach, exploit, conserve or research without a map or chart." (Cartography, vol. 20, no. 2 December 1991)
Land exploration and surveying has played a crucial role in the development of Queensland. Surveyors and cartographers played an active part in establishing Queensland’s borders, physically surveying the land as well as creating maps, survey plans and registers.
The historical input of the surveying and mapping industry to the development of Queensland is an important factor in the role the department plays in providing a valuable resource for a wide range of community interests and government.
Historical collections and research services
The department has a comprehensive collection of maps, survey plans and historical objects. Copies of historical maps and survey plans are available for purchase and selected historical objects are available for loan.
Please contact the museum for more information or to make an appointment.
Museum of Lands, Mapping and Surveying
The Museum of Lands, Mapping and Surveying was established in 1982, and in 1988 was officially recognised as a sub-branch of the Queensland Museum. In its short history the museum has established one of the most comprehensive collections of its type in the world housing many important maps, survey plans and artefacts, significant to the history of mapping, surveying and land development particularly in Queensland.
The museum is managed by the department and is tasked with collecting, preserving and making available to the public information and artefacts concerning the history of lands, mapping and surveying in Queensland.
If you would like to arrange a tour of the museum or you have an item that you would like to donate to the collection, please contact the museum.
Last updated 6 March 2012