Lot #41: Antique 1842 Framed Boston Map

Boston before the Back Bay was filled in, with a population of under 90,000, in this map of the Hub from 1842. Centering downtown and the North End, with Charlestown, Roxbury, Southie, and East Boston. The map shows streets and wharves, points of interest, with railway lines indicated in red. From a steel engraving by Benjamin Rees Davies, and published by Chapman & Hall, of London. While the cartographer is unknown, the legend tells us that this was drawn "Under the Superintendence of the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge," a British organization that sought to spread knowledge to the masses, not only in England its colonies but around the world. Founded by Henry Brougham--a Whig, who believed better education of the general populace was essential to political reforms--and affiliated educators and social reformers, and active from 1826-1848, the SDUK produced and distributed compendiums of knowledge which sold for very low prices, as well as maps which were sold on a subscription basis. The maps had their own Map Committee, headed by Captain Francis Beaufort, Hydrographer to the British Admiralty, and author of many of the maps himself. A micro-manager and nit-picker, his exquisitely detailed maps were often delayed in publication, but he was supported by the SDUK because of his whole-hearted commitment to the work. In 1842 publishers Chapman & Hall took over publication of the maps, until SDUK ceased its work in 1848, perhaps a victim of its own very high aims. Excellent condition, matted and in a simple flat wood frame. Dimensions: 18.75"W X 21.75"H Pickup category timeslot {C}