How do I preserve a paper map from 1873? It's folded in the front of an old book. I want to display it flat.

Question

The map is already deteriorated such that it is coming apart at some of the folds. I have several books with maps in them. I would like to remove the maps from the books, unfold them and display them flat. What can I use as a backing and how do I adhere the map to the backing?

Answer 1

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/roadshow/series/highlights/2003/hotsprings/hotsprings_fts_laminate.html

True, the website I gave you is more about "Is Laminating Old Paper a Good Idea?" ... but read further: "The following resources may be helpful for more information on preserving your old paper documents, prints, or maps:"

Northeast Document Conservation Center
Andover, Massachusetts
phone [phone]

Hope these help. Good luck!

Answer 2

to help resist deteriorating spray with hair spray let dry and then put them in frames that will help preserve them and also dress them up a bit

Answer 3

Frame it, and when you handle it, do so with latex gloves on because the oils on your fingers can damage a document that old.

Answer 4

get it eliminated and that will preserve it