Map Collection

The Map Collection at the Nova Scotia Archives offers a rich resource to further help situate your home and property, or show change to the natural and built environments over time. Dating from the first days of settlement to the late 20th century, some of these maps have been published and are widely familiar, while others are one-of-a-kind items providing unique, little-known cartographic snapshots of our province.

We've already mentioned the Nova Scotia Land Grant Index Sheets and the small survey maps sometimes found in land-petition files, but again, these are only 'tips of the iceberg' in exploring your heritage property. A Map Card Catalogue, arranged by community, township and county, is available at the Nova Scotia Archives to provide access to the main areas of the collection.

Details included in individual maps differ widely, depending upon the cartographer and the purpose of the map. Some emphasize topographical or geographical features, others highlight roads, prominent structures and other man-made features of the landscape. Still others are 'cadastral', showing individual homesteads and property owners. The maps described below are of specific interest to built-heritage researchers.

• William Mackay's 'Great Map'
• Nautical Charts
• A.F. Church Co. Maps
• Geological Survey Maps
• Topographical Maps
• Fire Insurance Plans
• Bird's Eye Views