Who We Are

The Harry Ransom Center is an internationally renowned humanities research center at The University of Texas at Austin. Through our extensive collections, we strive to provide unique insight into the creative process of some of our finest writers and artists, deepening the understanding and appreciation of literature, photography, film, art, and the performing arts. The collections include nearly 1 million books, more than 42 million manuscripts, 5 million photographs, and 100,000 works of art. The Ransom Center preserves some of the world's most important literary and artistic collections and makes them accessible to researchers from around the globe.

What We are Fundraising For

Preservation and presentation of a map big enough for Texas. Measuring nearly 10 feet wide and 7 feet tall, the map is striking in its size, imagery, and detailed decoration. Titled Nova totius terrarum orbis tabula, it is known as the Blaeu World Map and was created by Dutch cartographer Joan Blaeu in 1648. Acquired by the Center in 1969, this magnificent map has been too fragile to display, until now. A team of experts will deploy specialized techniques to conserve and stabilize the map. In addition to treating the map for long-term preservation, the project team plans to present the map and new information during a future exhibition at the Center.

Your Impact

Your gift will enable the conservation and groundbreaking research of this incredible record of human creativity. It will also help share the Blaeu World Map with visitors and researchers from Texas and around the world through a future exhibition. With your help, we can preserve this irreplaceable world treasure while promoting its study.

In addition to helping fund this incredible project, everyone who gives $100 or more will receive a limited-edition Blaeu World Map replica (18” x 24”). For those who give $500 or more will be invited to attend an exclusive tour and see the map in our conservation lab! Chat with Ransom Center conservators and enjoy a behind-the-scenes peek at the Blaeu Map for you and a guest.