What are ward maps?
The term ward map is one of many descriptors for the type of 19th century and early 20th century maps we specialize in. Often called real estate, plat or neighborhood block maps, ward maps contain detailed information such as property owner names, building street numbers & heights, public infrastructure such as subways, street names & water mains, business names, institution names as well as information on public parks and water ways. Ward maps were published to paying subscribers in bound atlases. The subscribers were typically real estate concerns who used ward maps to track property ownership and type. Ward maps were used by municipalities, real estate firms, insurance companies and other entities that needed a detailed record of where properties were located, who owned properties, and what properties were constructed of. All of the colors in our the maps on WardMaps are original, though many have sadly faded over time. Many of the publishers used colors as a graphic code to indicat
