Research and Distribution

The Research and Distribution Center (RDC) stewards one of our state’s most comprehensive collections of geographic records, with maps dating back to 1890. A core part of this work is maintaining the Historical Imagery Archive, which now contains more than one million frames of imagery. The RDC is charged with preserving this collection, distributing it to the public, and continuing the long-term effort to digitize the imagery.

The RDC can assist users with finding the right materials for their needs. Staff can locate specific photos or maps, explain available formats, and coordinate digital scans or reproduction requests. In addition, the team can help connect the public to resources held across other state and federal agencies.

By keeping this long-running historical archive organized and accessible, the RDC makes it possible to explore the ways Texas has shifted, grown, and reshaped itself over more than a century.