AndrewC (migrating to ohai)Apr 2, 2025

Hey, fedi #Unicode nerds!  

#OpenStreetMap's Andy Mabbett (@Pigsonthewing) is asking whether anyone knows about any instances of the #OrdnanceSurvey's bench mark symbol appearing in actual print, on a page. Looks a bit like ⭱ or ⤒ but a broader arrow. Usually found carved on stone or brick all over the UK/ROI.

Their goal is to propose it as a Unicode symbol! https://community.openstreetmap.org/t/os-bench-mark-symbol-in-printed-documents/128182

Any known international usage of this symbol would doubtless be appreciated too

@openstreetmap

Show threadObscuredavid
@achadwick @Pigsonthewing @openstreetmap
Is it on OS paper maps legend?
Apr 2, 2025 at 9:17amWeb
Show threadAndrewC (migrating to ohai)Apr 2, 2025

@Cameleopard Not from the recent examples I can grub up with an image search. I may have missed it, tho. They're kind of internal to the process of surveying without GPS.

OS still(?) use a blue upward-facing equilateral triangle for the trig points, but I think that's the extent of their mapping their own reference points. I think these marks occur in other places on the ground too.

Perhaps historical maps might have it, or a more recent book on the subject

@Pigsonthewing @openstreetmap