Unveiling History: 18th Century Spanish Maps Illuminate Canada's West Coast
Dr. Antonio Cazorla-Sanchez and Spanish ambassador unveil new exhibit on display at Bata Library until September 29
In a celebration of history and exploration, Trent University's Bata Library became the epicentre of discovery when Dr. Antonio Cazorla-Sanchez, a luminary in historical studies and recent inductee into the Royal Society of Canada, unveiled his latest historical exhibit, 18th Century Spanish Cartography of Canada's West Coast.
This showcase of 18 meticulously crafted maps, on display in Bata Library’s Atrium until September 29, promises to unlock the secrets of Canada's western shores and explore the lives of those who drafted them.
“These maps are not just historical artifacts; they are windows into the past. This period was a fascinating time in history, a period of great change,” shared Professor Cazorla-Sanchez. “Remarkable individuals from diverse backgrounds played pivotal roles, with experiences ranging from the extraordinary to the ordinary. Some were leaders in the fight for independence, champions of abolition, while others were explorers and scholars.”
Adding an international flair to the evening, His Excellency Alfredo Martínez Serrano, Spain's ambassador to Canada, graced the event, bearing gifts of immense value – two volumes of Flora de la Real Expedición Botánica del Nuevo Reino de Granada, irreplaceable works now housed in the Trent Archives.
The newly appointed university librarian, Emily Tufts, hosted the evening and was on hand to receive the gifts from the ambassador.
“This exhibit, as well as the contribution from His Excellency, not only showcases Trent’s commitment to preserving history but also highlights our dedication to fostering knowledge,” shared Tufts. “The team here in the Trent University Library and Archives are partners not just in the research process, but also key supporters in sharing the outcomes and outputs of Trent research with the world. This exhibit is an example of what’s possible when researchers and libraries collaborate.”
Unveiling a world of discovery, these maps remind us that history is a never-ending journey.