| Method | Zincograph |
| Artist | [Anonymous] |
| Published | [Ordnance Survey, c.1898 impression] |
| Dimensions | 307 x 454 mm |
| Notes |
An Ordnance Survey map depicting parts of West Oxfordshire, centred on Eynsham and Cassington and covering the surrounding farmlands. This map measures 12 x 18 inches and uses the 6 inches to 1 mile scale. Inscription to bottom left: "Oxfordshire. Surveyed in 1872-1875. Berkshire. Surveyed in 1872. Revised in 1898." Ordnance Survey or "OS" is the national mapping agency of Great Britain. The agency provides the most recent and accurate geographic data of Great Britain to the government, businesses and individuals. It was officially founded in 1791, but has even earlier roots. The government first ordered the department of Defence to map the Scottish Highlands after a rebellion took place there in 1745. When the French Revolution started, a survey of the English south coast was ordered. These first surveys were meant to support strategic military planning. William Roy (1726 - 1790), an engineer who worked for the government on these first surveys, became convinced that accurate mapping of Great Britain in its entirety was needed. His vision greatly influenced the foundation of the Ordnance Survey. Between 1842 and 1893, the entire country was surveyed, and would be revised every twenty years. During the 1850's, there was a debate about the most efficient scale to use for ordnance maps, better known as the "Battle of the Scales". The scale of 25 inches to the mile became the standard scale used to map urban as well as rural areas from 1855 onwards, and is still used today. The less detailed scale of six inches to the mile were used only for some uncultivated rural areas, moorlands or mountainous areas. Ex. Col.: St. John's College, Geography Dept. Condition: Folding map using a scale of six inch to the mile. Sheet laid on linen, folding into red cloth. Bottom margin with scale missing as issued. St. John's College Geography Department Library Stamp on red cloth cover. |
| Framing | unmounted |
| Price | £60.00 |
| Stock ID | 46601 |