Map Expert, Author, Philip Burden to Speak in NC

Cartographic expert Philip Burden will present his lecture "The Men Behind the Maps" tomorrow at Meredith College in Raleigh, NC. Mr. Burden, is the author of the two volume set, "The Mapping of North America." The first volume, covering the period from 1511-1670, is widely regarding the most authoritative source on North American maps of that era.

Mr. Burden has traveled all over the world researching maps for his books as well for his firm, Clive A. Burden Ltd. of the United Kingdom. During his research, he has discovered many rare maps. He recounted to the News & Observer how he once discovered a rare map of Texas made by none other than the father of Texas, Stephen F. Austin.

Mr. Burden's rare public appearance in the U.S. is sponsored by the William P. Cumming Map Society and Gallery C, of Raleigh. The lecture will begin at 4:00 p.m. with a reception afterwards. Both are free of charge but registration is required and space is limited.

Unfortunately for those of us that dream of uncovering a rare, valuable, map in a dusty chest, or at a garage sale, Mr. Burden doesn't offer much hope. He told the News & Observer, "Most of my great finds for the research of my book have occurred in the great institutions of the world, such as the British Library and the Library of Congress."

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The Mapping of North America Volume I, available here