Business Details
Jerry Olson's Books: Expert Surveying History Publications in Vancouver
Jerry Olson's Books is dedicated to preserving the rich history of surveying and engineering through meticulously researched publications. Founded by Jerry C. Olson, a licensed professional land surveyor and engineer, our mission is to document and share the stories of pioneering surveyors who shaped the Pacific Northwest. Our flagship works, including 'Surveying North of the River' and 'David D. Clarke: Narratives of a Surveyor and Engineer,' combine decades of archival research with firsthand accounts to provide unparalleled insights into 19th and early 20th-century land development. Collaborating with institutions like the Oregon Historical Society and Minnesota Historical Society, we ensure historical accuracy through original manuscripts, photographs, and maps.Our publications serve professionals, historians, and enthusiasts seeking authoritative resources on surveying's foundational role in regional growth. With over 2,200 photographs and 573 biographies, our work stands as both academic reference and tribute to unsung pioneers. By partnering with MacKay Sposito, we continue expanding access to these critical historical records while maintaining rigorous scholarly standards. Every book reflects our commitment to preserving technical heritage for future generations.
Services
Historical surveying books
Biographical research
Archival documentation
Land development history
Engineering heritage publications
Manuscript transcription
Photograph preservation
Regional history resources
Professional reference materials
Surveyor genealogy records
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of specialized expertise in Pacific Northwest surveying history
- Our publications include 2,200+ archival photographs and 573 detailed biographies
- We collaborate with Oregon Historical Society and Minnesota Historical Society archives
- Books feature original manuscripts, maps, and technical documentation from 1851-1920
- Direct access to author Jerry Olson's decades of field experience as P.L.S. and P.E.
What people say
Captivating reading for engineers
Insightful 19th century accounts
Rich surveying heritage resource
Exceptional archival documentation
Valuable professional reference
Services
Historical Surveying Books
Jerry Olson's Books produces comprehensive surveying history publications combining archival research with firsthand accounts. Our works document Pacific Northwest land development through biographies, photographs, and technical records. Each publication serves as both academic reference and preservation of professional heritage.
Archival Documentation
We compile original manuscripts, maps, and photographs from institutions like Oregon Historical Society and Minnesota Historical Society Archives. Our documentation preserves surveying practices and personal histories from 1851-1920 for scholarly use.
Biographical Research
Our biographies feature 573 surveyors with 2,200 supporting photographs and documents. This research traces individual careers and contributions to regional development through verified historical records and family collections.
Manuscript Transcription
We transcribe and publish original handwritten accounts like David D. Clarke's diaries while maintaining spelling and punctuation accuracy. This process preserves technical terminology and historical context for modern readers.
Engineering Heritage
Our publications examine surveying's role in infrastructure development through railroad routes, water systems, and land claims. This technical history connects early engineering practices to modern professional standards.
Questions
What surveying history books do you offer?
We offer 'Surveying North of the River' (2018) and 'David D. Clarke: Narratives of a Surveyor and Engineer' containing biographies, photographs, and technical records from 1851-1920.
How can I order your publications?
Send a check for $39.95 plus shipping to Jerry Olson's Books at 222 E. Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98660. Include your name and address with payment.
What historical sources do you use?
Our research draws from Oregon Historical Society manuscripts, Northern Pacific Railroad archives at Minnesota Historical Society, and family collections containing original diaries and photographs.
Do you provide research services?
While our primary focus is published works, we can direct researchers to archival collections at Oregon Historical Society, Washington State Historical Society, and Minnesota Historical Society Archives.
Reviews (1)
Casey Dale
Oct 21, 2019
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Olsen Engineering was professional, throuogh, time efficient and a pleasure to work with (Mike Odren). I had a multi-year CUP project in Clark County and they assisted greatly in working through the maze of government requirements. I would Highly Recomend their services to anyone with a project in Washington or Oregon from small to a billion $+!
