This series of maps of Lawrence begins with the farmland of 1844 that was to become Lawrence, and proceeds through a current Google satellite view. The maps have been scaled and oriented so that they overlay one-another to help you see the evolution of the streets of Lawrence.
The incredible transformation of Lawrence depicted in this mapping project was produced by home-schooler, Dave Russell. The maps were not identical in size or orientation, so each document was correctly sized and positioned so the transformation is clearly visible to the viewer. Although the end result may look simple to us, the viewers, it is the the technology and science that went into the project that allows it to appear that way. With many thanks to Dave for bringing us this visual "Transformation of Lawrence."
For our 30th Anniversary year, the LHC has highlighted "Transformation" as the defining theme. As we study the history of this ever-transforming City, it is as fascinating to look at the surface transformation as well ~ as reflected in the following maps. The City that was originally developed due to its proximity to three rivers: Spicket, Shawsheen and Merrimack. Click here to view the transformation through the years: Click here to view the transformation through the years.
A note: what significant difference do you see in the Spicket in the late 19th century? Hint