Mapmakers Leave Clues: Secrets and Self-Portraits in the Library of Congress Stacks

Hidden among the vast archives of the Library of Congress, maps aren’t just guides—they’re canvases for cartographers’ secret signatures and creative flourishes. The Philip Lee Phillips Society Fellowship invites two scholars to spend eight weeks exploring these treasures, delving into the art and science of mapping, digital humanities, or geospatial research. Supported by generous donors and the John W. Kluge Center, this residency offers access to rare materials and a stipend to fuel deep dives into cartographic history. Past fellows have uncovered surprising details, like mapmakers sneaking their own likenesses into centuries-old charts, blending artistry with geography. Applicants don’t need a specific degree, but a proven track record in geography, cartography, or history is essential. The deadline is September 15, and the discoveries made here promise to redraw the boundaries of what maps can reveal—about the world, and about their creators. #Cartography #LibraryOfCongress #MapHistory #Culture