More than 1000 General Staff maps from all over France!
I was lucky enough recently to be contacted by one of the descendants of a director of the National Geographic Institute (IGN) when it was created in 1940. The reason for his call? He discovered a pile of more than a thousand maps in his grandfather's garage! Thanks to this incredible opportunity, I was able to get my hands on these maps of the whole of France (except Corsica), maps of great precision, dating from the Second World War.
A stack of maps weighing over 60 kg!
These maps are not just geographical representations, they are real historical testimonies, reflecting a crucial moment in our history. Discover with me the fascinating history of these maps, and how you can get one to enrich your collection.
Historical maps: the first IGN maps
In June 1940, in the context of the world war, the Army Geographic Service became the National Geographic Institute (IGN). This transformation into a civilian organization had a strategic objective: to prevent maps and survey instruments from falling into the hands of German forces. Thus were born the very first maps of the IGN, documents of great precision, witnesses to a troubled period in the history of France.
Detail of a map indicating the drawing date
These maps are in fact the direct heirs of the 1889 type staff maps. These are the traditional staff maps at a scale of 1/80,000, which were divided into four to reach a scale of 1/50,000 , thus offering a very interesting level of detail. This format allowed for great precision, essential for the strategic and military needs of the time.
Exploring these maps reveals not only the geographical landscape of France during the Second World War, but also fascinating historical elements: forgotten paths, villages that have now disappeared, or even strategic defense lines. These maps are not simply geographical documents, they are windows onto the past, direct testimonies of a bygone era.
How to get one of these maps?
These maps are historical, and I want to share them with history, geography and heritage enthusiasts. However, they are not offered for sale in the traditional way on my site. If you are interested in one of these historical maps, I invite you to contact me directly, specifying the cities or villages that interest you. In addition, do not hesitate to refer to the assembly chart to find the map that suits you.
I will take the time to search among these maps for the one that might interest you. I will send you detailed photos and descriptions so that you can appreciate their quality and historical value before making any decision. Whether you are a collector, historian, or simply curious to discover the France of another era, these maps will fascinate you.
A Passion to Share
Receiving such an exceptional batch of old maps is for me an experience that is both moving and exciting. It is a privilege to be able to share them with other lovers of antique maps and history. I will continue to keep you informed of the news and discoveries that I will be able to make among these exceptional documents.
If you would like to know more about these maps or other geographical treasures that I offer, do not hesitate to contact me. The passion for maps is also the pleasure of sharing stories, anecdotes, and of making you travel through time and space.
