The Rumsey Collection

I found this treasure trove of vintage inspiration very randomly while doing research for a new project, and I’m so glad I did. The Rumsey Collection is a huge collection of historical maps—and that really is an understatement. The 150,000 maps are mostly rare 18th and 19th century maps of North and South America, though there are others from throughout the world, plus globes, pocket maps, maritime charts and more. It is incredibly easy to get lost for hours on this site, clicking from one thing to the next—there are just so many amazing things to see.

The collection’s site also uses unique technology that allows the viewer to examine the minute details of each map; and as another bonus, the maps can also be purchased as prints in various sizes.