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A Superficial Geology Map of the British Isles
This map, titled Map of the Superficial Geology of the British Isles, with the Physical and Topographical Features, The Line of Railways, their Primary and Intermediate Stations, The General Internal Communication of the Countries, and the Steam Packet Routes, with the Distance from Port to Port, was compiled in 1843 by James Wyld, Geographer to the Queen. It offers an intricate representation of the British Isles, showcasing not only the geological and physical features but also the burgeoning network of railways and steam packet routes.
The map shows the counties of the British Isles, each delineated with distinct colored boundaries, aiding in the visual differentiation of regions. A key feature of this map is its detailed depiction of the railway lines, which were rapidly expanding during this period. Both primary and intermediate stations are marked, illustrating the connectivity and reach of the rail network. Additionally, the map includes the steam packet routes, along with the distances from port to port. These routes are crucial for understanding the maritime communication and transportation networks that were vital for trade and travel.
By 1843, the United Kingdom was undergoing a transportation revolution. The introduction and expansion of the railway system dramatically altered the landscape of travel and commerce. Railways provided faster, more reliable, and cheaper means of transporting goods and passengers compared to the traditional horse-drawn carriages and canal systems. The map’s detailed railway lines reflect this rapid growth and the importance of railways in connecting major cities and rural areas alike.
Simultaneously, steamship travel revolutionized maritime transport. Steam packets, which are prominently featured on the map, played a critical role in facilitating international and coastal trade. These vessels, powered by steam engines, were more reliable than their sail-driven counterparts, providing consistent and scheduled services. The distances marked on the map highlight the extensive reach of steam packet routes, connecting various ports within the British Isles and beyond, thus enhancing both commercial and passenger travel.
States of the Map
First issued in 1840, we note several states of the map, including 1842, 1843, 1844, 1845, 1848, 1850, 1862 and 1876.
James Wyld Sr. (1790-1836) was a British cartographer and one of Europe’s leading mapmakers. He made many contributions to cartography, including the introduction of lithography into map printing in 1812.
William Faden, another celebrated cartographer, passed down his mapmaking business to Wyld in 1823. The quality and quantity of Faden’s maps, combined with Wyld’s considerable skill, brought Wyld great prestige.
Wyld was named geographer to Kings George IV and William IV, as well as HRH the Duke of York. In 1825, he was elected an Associate of the Institution of Civil Engineers. He was one of the founding members of the Royal Geographical Society in 1830. Also in 1830, his son, James Wyld Jr., took over his publishing house. Wyld Sr. died of overwork on October 14, 1836.
James Wyld Jr. (1812-87) was a renowned cartographer in his own right and he successfully carried on his father’s business. He gained the title of Geographer to the Queen and H.R.H. Prince Albert. Punch (1850) described him in humorous cartographic terms, “If Mr. Wyld’s brain should be ever discovered (we will be bound he has a Map of it inside his hat), we should like to have a peep at it, for we have a suspicion that the two hemispheres must be printed, varnished, and glazed, exactly like a pair of globes.”
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