Scotland

The title on this map reads, 'This map of Scotland, constructed and engraved from the best authorities'. This map was printed in 1810 by James Kirkwood and Sons and is drawn at a scale of approximately 11 miles to an inch. The Orkneys are contained in an inset on the top right of the sheet whilst the Shetland Isles are inset in the bottom left. There are quite a few informative notes printed round the extremities of the map. This is a reprint of an earlier Kirkwood and Sons map with the same title but printed in 1804. This edition has more vibrant colouring but this is about the only difference. This map was eventually included in Kirkwood's 'Travelling map of Scotland'. It was quite usual for maps once created to be reissued, as this aided the recovery of the time and expense laid out on the original printing plate.

Between 1750 and 1900 the outline of Scotland became steadily more accurate, based on both better surveying equipment and the increasing number of surveys available. The development of railways, roads and canals as well as the growth of towns and their administration can be traced by comparing these maps through time. This period saw an increase in demand for thematic maps. Maps for the schoolroom, touring or excursion maps, transport, commercial, geological and statistical maps all made an appearance. All of these maps have now become a pictorial testament to both native and foreign perceptions of Scotland during this period.

[Shelfmark EMS.b.2.118]