Historic stratigraphic illustrations depict the earth beneath our feet
in captivating hand-drawn diagrams. Each drawing tells a unique geologic
story, exquisitely rendered in colors from pastel palettes to brilliant
bolds that show evolving scientific graphic conventions over time.
Created by federal and state geologists over the course of one hundred
years, the maps reveal sedimentary rock layers that present an
unexpected view of our treasured public lands, making this collection an
important record of natural resources, as well as a beautiful display of
map design. The fascinating history of the science behind the drawings
is explored by sedimentary geologist Jody Bourgeois, a professor
emeritus at the University of Washington's College of the Environment
and a fellow of the Geological Society of America.