BTAA-GIN Collection Stories

By Wenjie Wang This interview is part of our Data Provider Series, which highlights local governments and institutions that offer open GIS data. In each interview, providers tell us about their missions and data resources. We hope this will be a great way for readers to learn more about local GIS developments and new initiatives. Name: Mark Yacucci Title: Head-Geoscience Information Division/Department: Illinois State Geological Survey Website: https://isgs.illinois.edu/ Please briefly describe your role and what is the mission of your agency? The Prairie Research Institute benefits the people, economy, and environment of Illinois, delivering impact to every corner of the state. Our staff apply scientific knowledge and data in geology, ecology and biodiversity, archaeology, water, weather and climate, pollution prevention, hazardous waste management, and sustainable energy. PRI comprises five state scientific surveys: the Illinois Natural History Survey , Illinois State Archaeologi...

By Laura McElfresh Perspectivische vorstellung des berühmten Blocken What is the item? This hand-colored view shows Brocken Mountain, the highest mountain in northern Germany, viewed from the northeast. The map covers the area that can be seen from the top of the mountain. What BTAA Library submitted the item? University of Michigan map detail: “Bructerus Herciniae montes supereminet omnes” -- Brocken towers above all mountains Interesting tidbits: According to popular legend, Brocken Mountain is the site of the Walpurgis Night Witches’ Sabbath. Accordingly, the map shows witches flying in the sky above the mountain on brooms, pitchforks, and goats, and has two people dancing on top of the mountain. The (mythical?) bird holding the middle of the decorative cartouche is not quite an owl, flanked by two not-quite-peacocks on the ends. The “Brocken” scene from Goethe’s opera Faust is set on Brocken Mountain. June 23rd is Saint John’s Eve, the night that inspired Modest Mussorgsky’s Night ...