Historical Context
The concept of the Base Line originated during the establishment of the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) in the United States. The PLSS was initiated by the Land Ordinance of 1785, aimed at surveying and systematically dividing federal lands for sale and development.
Types/Categories
- Principal Base Line: The main east-west line from which township lines are established.
- Auxiliary Base Line: Secondary lines used to correct and adjust surveys in certain areas.
Key Events
- 1785: Enactment of the Land Ordinance, leading to the creation of the PLSS.
- 1787: Establishment of the first Base Line and Principal Meridian in Ohio.
- 1804: The creation of the Initial Point in the Louisiana Purchase, marking key Base Line and Principal Meridian intersections.
Detailed Explanations
What is a Base Line?
A Base Line is a latitudinal reference line used in the PLSS to provide a foundational reference for the division and subdivision of land. It runs east-west and intersects a Principal Meridian, establishing a grid for land surveying.
Mathematical Models/Diagrams
The following Mermaid diagram represents the intersection of a Base Line with a Principal Meridian:
graph LR
A[Base Line] -- intersects --> B[Principal Meridian]
A --> C[Section]
C --> D[Township]
D --> E[Range]
Importance and Applicability
- Surveying: Provides a standardized method for dividing land.
- Land Management: Helps in systematic land development and legal land descriptions.
- Historical Land Records: Base Lines and Principal Meridians are essential for interpreting old land records.
Examples
- Baseline Road in Michigan: Named after the Michigan Baseline, which served as a reference for surveys in the state.
- Baseline Road in Arizona: Refers to the Base Line used for land division in the region.
Considerations
- Geographical Variations: Base Lines need adjustments for curvature of the Earth.
- Legal Implications: Land disputes often reference Base Lines and Principal Meridians.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Principal Meridian: A north-south line used in conjunction with a Base Line to create a grid system for surveying.
- Township: A square unit of land, typically 6 miles on each side, established from a Base Line and Principal Meridian.
- Range: Columns of townships east or west of a Principal Meridian.
Comparisons
- Base Line vs. Principal Meridian: Base Lines run east-west, whereas Principal Meridians run north-south.
- PLSS vs. Metes and Bounds: PLSS uses a grid system for surveying, whereas Metes and Bounds use natural landmarks and measurements.
Interesting Facts
- Geodetic Accuracy: The initial Base Lines and Principal Meridians laid down in the 1800s were remarkably accurate considering the technology of the time.
- Baseline Road Naming: Several roads across the United States are named after their corresponding Base Lines.
Inspirational Stories
Thomas Jefferson’s Vision: As the primary advocate for the PLSS, Jefferson’s vision of organized land distribution facilitated the westward expansion and development of the United States.
Famous Quotes
“Where liberty dwells, there is my country.” —Benjamin Franklin (Highlighting the importance of land in the concept of liberty and nation-building.)
Proverbs and Clichés
- “A straight line is the shortest distance between two points.” (Emphasizes the simplicity and efficiency of Base Lines in land surveying.)
- “Laying down the law.” (Derived from the methodical establishment of land laws based on Base Lines.)
Expressions, Jargon, and Slang
- “Running the line”: Surveying along a Base Line or Principal Meridian.
- “Initial Point”: The point of intersection of a Principal Meridian and Base Line.
FAQs
What is the purpose of a Base Line in the PLSS?
How are Base Lines determined?
Are Base Lines still used today?
References
- National Geodetic Survey. “The Public Land Survey System (PLSS).” [Link]
- Bureau of Land Management. “A History of the Rectangular Survey System.” [Link]
- Library of Congress. “Land Ordinance of 1785.” [Link]
Summary
The Base Line is a crucial element of the Public Land Survey System, providing a foundational east-west reference for land division. Originating from the Land Ordinance of 1785, it intersects with Principal Meridians to create a systematic grid for surveying and managing land. This standardized approach facilitated westward expansion and continues to play a vital role in modern land surveying practices.
