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Saxton's Atlas of England and Wales

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description Saxton's Atlas of England and Wales Overview

Christopher Saxton's Atlas of England and Wales, published in 1579, brought surveyed county maps together in the first printed atlas of the two countries. Produced during Elizabeth I's reign, the work received support from Thomas Seckford and royal backing. Its maps record settlements and county divisions, giving the collection practical value as well as a place in the history of national mapping. The atlas presents geographical detail in a form that could be consulted across counties, rather than relying on a single general map.

Its accuracy was significant for its period, though it remains a historical source rather than a substitute for modern surveying. Historians and geographers can use it to examine how places were represented in Elizabethan England and Wales. Decorative royal and patronal imagery also reveals the connection between mapping and authority, making the volume relevant to studies of both cartography and government.

help Saxton's Atlas of England and Wales FAQ

Why is Saxton's Atlas of England and Wales historically significant?

Published in 1579, it was the very first printed atlas to comprehensively survey and chart the entirety of England and Wales. Before its publication, detailed maps of the region were incredibly rare and mostly manuscript-based. It set the standard for British cartography for centuries to follow.

Who commissioned Christopher Saxton to create his famous atlas?

The ambitious survey and atlas were commissioned by Queen Elizabeth I and orchestrated by her powerful advisor, Thomas Seckford. Saxton was granted special royal warrants allowing him to demand local assistance during his travels. The resulting maps proudly feature the royal coat of arms.

How were the maps in Saxton's Atlas created?

Christopher Saxton utilized triangulation, an advanced surveying technique for the time, alongside astronomical observations to calculate distances and positions. He then engraved the maps onto copper plates for mass printing in London. The atlas was printed by George Bishop and Ralph Newbery.

How many maps are in Christopher Saxton's Atlas?

The complete atlas contains 34 beautifully detailed county maps of England and 1 general map of Wales. A highly decorative frontispiece was also included in the 1579 first edition. These maps remained the definitive source for English geography for over a century.

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