Grand Rapids Michigan History and Cartography (1868)

Grand Rapids Michigan history is explored and examined from this vintage map that was originally produced in 1868. In the video we zoom in and look at various historical characteristics that make this map so great. The map itself is a birdseye perspective map in that we get to see building architecture, changes in elevation, streets, vegetation and much more.

Check out the Grand Rapids map print from our online store:

[windfarmer]

Nice job of bringing that map to life. I can't imagine how difficult it would be to draw a birdseye view map without aerial footage.

[skipjo]

Do they have details of the houses on Heritage Hill? I’d like to see them zoomed in on Prospect and Fountain area

[portsmouthteens]

Hotels were common because people didn't own homes and needed somewhere to stay while they were working

[Howoldareweanywayyipes]

hey, thanks for a great video...! oldster73 here...

[jatznic]

You are right about the factories along the waterfront. Grand Rapids used to be known as Furniture City USA so a lot of those old factories on the river were receiving lumber shipments for that purpose. There is a bunch of information about the furniture industry at the public museum here, some of which can be seen at their website.

Thanks for sharing this!

[davidm]

You could start with the fact that the dam was built to direct water down canals on each side of the river to power factories, flour mills and furniture companies. Grand Rapids was known as furniture city.

[davidm]

Not much history in this video, you should do some research.

[gumpyproductions]

did they do this cartography via hot air balloons? funny how everything is laid out exactly like a mother board. how are the lines so straight also? funny to think about past civilizations and the possible lost technology...

[daveth]

Good grief.  What was your point here?  All I got was ocular whiplash and a lesson on how to read a map legend.  I learned nothing.  SLOW DOWN, and read some history before you drag an innocent history fan through this again.  Next time try to add a little value.  Hey, I love your passion, but geez.