ISSUE 67– STEVE KOVACS FUN WITH MAPS

DAILY FEATURE: By Steve Kovacs (Introduction by Chuck Gibson)

LOVELAND, OH (September 9, 2020) – In Issue 67of Steve Kovacs Fun with Maps we take a look at the Golden State. . . as an island.

A California sunset (Chuck Gibson)

California Dreaming…

California joined the Union as the 31st state 170 years ago today.  It is a state of contrast.  It has its:

  • Highs: 5th largest economy in the world, tallest trees in the world are native (Redwoods), most movie stars, and
  • Lows: lowest point in North America (Death Valley), most memorable slow speed car chase (O. J. Simpson in 1994) and so on.

I’m sure you can add to this list.

Somewhat ironically, many believe the state was named after a mythical island in a novel about Queen Calafia.  Given all the earthquakes, some predict it may become an island in the future. .  .

Speaking of islands, many maps from 16th century to 18th century did in fact depict California as an island, based on erroneous early surveying of the Baja California peninsula.    This Jaillot map of North America from 1696 is a nice example of this misconception… or does it hint something about the future?

This map of North America from 1696 depicts California as an island (Credit Steve Kovacs)

Steve Kovacs and his wife Theresa reside in Loveland, Ohio where they raised their two children. He is a passionate collector of antique maps.

Click here to visit his antique map boutique world-on-paper online. Watch for his daily feature Steve Kovacs: Antique Maps & Fun Facts here on Loveland Beacon.