Since 1977, DRMP has been providing accurate survey deliverables that are critical to the success of our client’s projects. As we begin to celebrate National Surveyors Week, DRMP is looking back on some of the historical influences that have shaped the surveying and mapping services that we provide today.
The earliest known use of surveying practices is in 1400 BC by the Egyptians, whom first used it to accurately divide land into plots for taxation. They used measuring ropes to gauge the dimensions of various land plots. They did this by stretching a piece of rope and treating it with materials so that it would hold its length. Egyptian surveyors would then use it to measure distances and tie knots at various intervals with significance.
The next great revelation in early land surveying was the creation of the diopter by the Greeks in 120 BC. The diopter was the first piece of surveying equipment ever invented. It was a portable tool that featured a cogwheel, screw and water level used to measure terrestrial and astronomical elements on a property. This led to the Greek’s development of the first set of standards and guidelines for land surveying methods.
In 1571, Joshua Habermel invented a new land surveying tool, the theodolite. This is a precise surveying tool that uses a tripod and a compass. It was modified in 1725, when Jonathon Sission added a scope to the instrument. Theodolites are still used today in modern surveying practices, which makes the invention highly impactful on the development of modern surveying.
In the 21st century, we still rely on many of the basic methods that have been around since ancient times. However, with the development of modern technology such as GPS systems, geographic information systems (GIS) programs and advanced scanners, surveying has become more accurate, faster and user-friendly. At DRMP, we strive to train on the latest technologies and methods available to surveyors around the world, and in return this allows us to provide our clients with more reliable data than ever before. As land surveying propels into the future with new innovations and advancements in technology, one thing stands true, the practice will continue to stand the test of time.
