- Title: Geologic Map of Texas | Edited by George Stose, 1937 | Base Compiled by A.F. Hassan, 1922; revised 1930
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Author: Department of the Interior, US Geological Survey, Prepared by N.H. Darton, L.W. Stephenson and Julia Gardner, Edited by George W. Stose
- Date: 1937
- Condition: Printed on four sheets. Mild age toning, a bit of staining at bottom of lower left sheet, just entering image. An exceptional, untouched example.
- Inches: 82 x 101 1/2 [In four sheets, neatline 50 3/4 x 40 1/2 each]
- Centimeters: 208.28 x 257.81 [In four sheets]
- Product ID: 308616
Monumental Size, Epic Rarity – USGS/University of Texas Geological Wall Map
Beautifully rendered and massively impressive, truly a sight to behold.
This map represents a pre-war high point in the cooperative effort between the Bureau of Economic Geology of the University of Texas at Austin and the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Its size, the undertaking required to complete it, and its economic value represent one of the most epic contributions the University of Texas and its partners have made to the state of Texas. This gigantic map identifies the entire spectrum of geologic occurrence in the state, of the utmost importance to the people and economy of Texas.
Prepared by N.H. Darton, L.W. Stephenson, and Julia Gardner
Compiled between the years 1924 and 1935, in cooperation with the Bureau of Economic Geology of the University of Texas, the geologists of Texas, and the oil companies of Texas, from all available published material and from unpublished data furnished by geologists of the United States Geological Survey, the Bureau of Economic Geology of the State of Texas, and oil companies and by consulting geologists.
The "Geologic Map of Texas" edited by George Stose in 1937, with a base compiled by A.F. Hassan, is one of the most impressive cartographic and scientific achievements in Texas’ history. Spanning four large sheets, this map represents a collaborative milestone between the Bureau of Economic Geology at the University of Texas and the United States Geological Survey (USGS), both leaders in geological research and mapping. The map’s expansive coverage and meticulous attention to detail make it an invaluable resource for understanding the state's foundational geology, economic assets, and natural history.
Each sheet provides a different segment of Texas, collectively covering its topography and geologic formations. The map uses detailed color coding and symbols to represent the spectrum of rock types and surface features present across the state. From sedimentary basins along the Gulf Coast, through the mineral-rich uplands of West Texas, and into the rolling plains of the interior, every significant geologic occurrence is depicted, facilitating both immediate visual recognition and scholarly study of Texas’ land.
One of the defining characteristics of this map is the in-depth legend and stratigraphic columns included, representing the range of rock ages and types—from Precambrian crystalline formations through Cretaceous limestones and younger deposits. This structured explanation allows geologists and non-specialists alike to interpret the map, identify resource-rich regions, and understand the relationship between geology and surface hydrology, soil, and vegetation. The scientific rigor and clarity of presentation make this a classic teaching tool and an economic reference for industries ranging from oil and gas to agriculture and urban development.
The map’s scale and resolution underscore the physical and economic diversity of Texas. Rivers, fault zones, and major cities are overlaid atop geologic patterns, illustrating how the state’s infrastructure, agriculture, and settlement patterns are intertwined with geology. For communities, policymakers, and companies, this grand synthesis of data supports exploration, resource management, and environmental planning, all based upon a sound understanding of subsurface conditions.
In summary, the "Geologic Map of Texas" by Stose stands as a monumental pre-war accomplishment, representing both academic excellence and practical utility. Its enduring value lies not only in its scientific detail and accuracy but also in its role as a strategic guide for Texas’ land use, economic planning, and conservation. As such, it remains a cornerstone for anyone studying the state’s geology, mapping history, or resource management, and serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit between the University of Texas and the USGS in advancing Texas’ geological knowledge.
Background on Creator(s)
George Willis Stose (1869–1960) was a distinguished American geologist best known for his extensive career with the United States Geological Survey (USGS), where he served for nearly six decades. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and quickly became a prominent figure in geological mapping and stratigraphy. Stose held the influential position of Editor of Geologic Maps, overseeing the quality and publication of geologic maps for the USGS from 1897 until his retirement in 1941—a role critical to the advancement of American geologic knowledge. His authoritative editorial and scientific hand shaped many state and national geologic maps, including the landmark Geologic Map of Texas (1937). Stose’s legacy further includes important fieldwork on the structure and stratigraphy of the Appalachians, numerous publications, and recognized leadership in collaborative geologic investigations, often working alongside his wife, Anna Jonas Stose, herself a renowned geologist.
Institutional Influences
The Bureau of Economic Geology is the oldest research unit at The University of Texas at Austin, established in 1909. The Bureau is the State Geological Survey of Texas and has been an integral part of the development of the state’s economic success through the years. The Bureau is very active today, conducting integrated geoscience research on relevant energy, environmental, and economic issues. Bureau researchers spearhead basic and applied research projects globally in energy resources and economics, coastal and environmental studies, land resources and use, geologic and mineral mapping, hydrogeology, geochemistry, and subsurface nanotechnology.
Created by Congress on March 3, 1879, the USGS was originally dedicated to exploring the geology and mineral potential of western lands. The USGS revolutionized surveying. Before the USGS was formed, most mapping in the United States was done by military expeditions and several independent government surveys. Upon its creation, the USGS established a comprehensive approach to surveying and worked to classify public lands -- examining their geological structure, mineral resources and products. This scientific appraisal of land potential and mineral resources changed the way government approached surveying and encouraged conservation, economic expansion and more efficient development across the nation.
The USGS has been making topographic maps of Texas since the 1880s. The early maps show roads, towns and settlements, and political boundaries, though the physical features are only generalized. Advances in the field of geology enabled scientists to determine the nature of the rocks and minerals that make up the earth to specify how they were formed and to identify coal, oil, and gas resources as well as to assess their potential for development. This map represents that modern effort, identifying in detail 102 geologic features representing mineral composition, rock structure, mineral resources, and geologic history across the Texas landscape.
Rarity
Although the map is held at a number of institutions, occurrence on the market is exceedingly rare. We are aware of only two other examples ever offered privately.
Condition
Printed on four sheets. Mild age toning, a bit of staining at bottom of lower left sheet, just entering image. An exceptional, untouched example.
References
Memorial to George Willis Stose. (1958). Geological Society of America, GSA Memorials, Vol. 31. [GSA]
Explanatory Text to Accompany The Geologic Map of the United States. (USGS Professional Paper 901). United States Geological Survey, 1980. [USGS Publications]
Mapping Texas Then and Now. Jackson School of Geosciences, The University of Texas at Austin. (2016). [UT Austin Geosciences]
BEG Maps of Texas – Geology. (2016). Bureau of Economic Geology, The University of Texas Libraries. [UT Libraries Guides]
United States Geological Survey. Texas State Historical Association (TSHA). Handbook of Texas Online. [TSHA]
The History of Texas is Under Your Feet and at Your Fingertips! USGS Science for a Changing World. (2015). [USGS]