Ploegencarte

Ploegencarte is a term that refers to a specific type of historical map or cartographic representation, often found in the Low Countries. The name itself, derived from the Dutch word "ploeg" meaning plow and "carte" meaning map, suggests a connection to agricultural land and its division. These maps typically depicted agricultural fields, often showing ownership, boundaries, and sometimes even the types of crops grown. They served practical purposes related to land management, taxation, and inheritance.

The creation of ploegencartes was particularly common during periods when land ownership and agricultural productivity were crucial for economic and social stability. They provide valuable insights into historical farming practices, land tenure systems, and the socio-economic landscape of rural areas. The level of detail on a ploegencarte could vary significantly, with some being quite rudimentary while others were elaborately detailed, including cadastral information. They are considered important historical documents for researchers studying agricultural history, local history, and historical geography.