A valuable archive of over 130 operational maps

Map of Gallipoli Sheet 2 (19 April 1915), published by the War Office, noting: ‘Reproduced by Survey Dept, Egypt’ Details: Black ink and chinograph pencil used to mark enemy positions prior to landing at Gallipoli. Image © Australian Army Museum Tasmania. Not to be copied or reproduced without permission.

A valuable archive of over 130 operational maps from World War I has been digitally recorded and preserved for future generations as part of an exciting Centenary of ANZAC commemorative project.

Thanks to a cooperative partnership between the Australian Army Museum Tasmania (AAMT), Heritage Tasmania and the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE), an enthusiastic team of volunteers and staff worked together to complete the year-long project in time for the Centenary of ANZAC.

Project Manager and volunteer AAMT Librarian, Warwick Lee, said the team worked hard to successfully scan, describe and index 131 significant war-time maps, many with hand-written details including operational and reconnaissance information about the position of troops, trenches and training camps.

“Through the digital preservation of these fascinating ANZAC records, maps that were previously locked away in secure map cabinets are now much more accessible”, Mr Lee said.

“The next phase is to develop an online catalogue so that interested members of the public and the military can search and view the new digital archive.”

Mr Lee said that the involvement of Graeme Harrington (DPIPWE) and Renee Allwright (Heritage Tasmania) was critical to the project’s success.

“Our wonderful team of volunteers was very fortunate to be able to work closely with Graeme and Renee on the project, drawing on their expertise to ensure a great outcome. We are also very grateful to managers and staff in the Information and Land Services Division of DPIPWE for allowing the use of their state-of-the-art scanning facilities.”

To contact the Military Museum or obtain more information about the World War I Maps project, see www.militarymuseumtasmania.org.au. The Museum is located at Anglesea Barracks in Hobart and open between 9am and 1pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.