diff --git a/lib/OpenLayers/Tile/Image.js b/lib/OpenLayers/Tile/Image.js
index 7aa1a49aec..0e04819308 100644
--- a/lib/OpenLayers/Tile/Image.js
+++ b/lib/OpenLayers/Tile/Image.js
@@ -57,6 +57,13 @@ OpenLayers.Tile.Image.prototype =
         this.layer.div.appendChild(this.imgDiv);
     },
 
+    /** Clear the tile of any bounds/position-related data so that it can 
+     *   be reused in a new location.
+     */
+    clear: function() {
+        this.imgDiv.style.display = "none";
+    },
+
     /** 
      * @param {OpenLayers.Bounds}
      * @param {OpenLayers.pixel} position