MHN Launches Interactive Maps, Plans for Transition
August 17, 2007 — Maritime Heritage Network, an online marketing collaboration by more than 80 maritime heritage groups in western Washington, has launched an innovative maps application on its website, http://www.maritimeheritage.net. The interactive maps show site users the locations of more than 100 historic ships, districts, maritime museums, and lighthouses in Puget Sound and the coast of Washington State. "Puget Sound visitors and residents can now quickly find their favorite types of attractions," says MHN project manager Joe Follansbee. "The maps makes visiting the sites and supporting maritime heritage organizations easier than ever."
The MHN Interactive Map is believed to be the most comprehensive maritime heritage mapping tool available on the Internet. MHN partnered with Agora Information Design of Seattle to design and build the map application, which incorporates Google's cutting edge mapping tools. The project was funded by 4Culture's Maritime Heritage Initiative and the Eldridge Campbell Stockton Memorial Preservation Fund of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Map users select a list of ships, museums, and other locations, or select one of a number of custom-designed tours that give visitors and residents a sampling of heritage sites. Users may design their own tours by selecting one or more attractions and creating a custom map. All maps are printable, allowing users to take a map with them on trips. Users also add comments to their favorite attractions, as well as rating them. Comments and ratings are reviewed by an editor before appearing on the site.
The launch of the MHN Interactive Map sets the stage for the next phase of growth for Maritime Heritage Network, which began in 2005 as a method for promoting maritime heritage resources in King and Kitsap counties. 4Culture is exploring options for growing MHN into an independent not-for-profit, transferring ownership to an existing not-for-profit or government agency, and other options. A strategic plan may include giving MHN a national footprint while maintaining a strong regional presence in the Pacific Northwest. MHN staff is now consulting with maritime heritage organizations and other stakeholders to develop the best option. Plans call for completion of a transition sometime in 2008.
For more information on Maritime Heritage Network, contact Joe Follansbee, 206-932-7578.
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