Land surveying is a crucial profession that has played a vital role in the development of human civilizations, enabling the measurement of large areas of the earth's surface. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, with early civilizations such as the Egyptians and the Romans practicing rudimentary forms of surveying to construct their magnificent structures and to allocate land. The tools and methods may have evolved, but the core purpose of surveying—to measure and map the land—remains unchanged.
The profession took on new importance with the exploration and colonization of the New World, where surveying was essential for the settlement and development of lands. In the early years of the United States, land surveying was not just a profession but an endeavor that shaped the very foundation of the country. The Public Land Survey System (PLSS), initiated in the late 18th century, was a monumental task that organized land into townships and sections for sale and settlement. This systematic approach was crucial in the expansion and development of the United States.
Famous surveyors of the early United States played a significant role in its expansion and development. Their contributions went beyond the technical aspects of surveying; they were explorers, pioneers, and often leaders in their communities.
George Washington
Before becoming the first President of the United States, George Washington was a land surveyor. At the young age of 17, he began his surveying career, which played a significant role in his early development. Washington's work as a surveyor allowed him to explore Virginia and the surrounding areas, providing him with invaluable experience and knowledge of the land, which later influenced his military and political career.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, had a deep interest in land surveying and played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Public Land Survey System. Jefferson's vision of a rectangular survey system helped organize the vast territories of the United States, facilitating orderly settlement and the expansion westward.
Meriwether Lewis and William Clark
Although more famous for their expedition as explorers, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark also contributed to the field of surveying. Their exploration of the Louisiana Purchase and the Pacific Northwest from 1804 to 1806 provided detailed maps and reports of the newly acquired territories, significantly impacting the expansion and development of the United States.
Andrew Ellicott
Andrew Ellicott, another notable figure, was a surveyor who played a crucial role in the history of the United States. He was commissioned to survey the boundaries of the newly established District of Columbia, the future seat of the federal government. Ellicott's work laid the groundwork for the development of the nation's capital, Washington, D.C.
These early surveyors were instrumental in mapping the United States, contributing to its growth and development. Their legacy is not just in the maps they created, but in the exploration and expansion of the country, which helped shape its destiny. Land surveying, with its rich history and significant contributions from these famous surveyors, continues to be an essential profession that supports development, legal land ownership, and the management of natural resources.