The emergence of estate maps

Dr. David Fletcher examines critically the part played by maps in the early modern period c.1600-1840 in the administration and management of the extensive landed estates in England and Wales owned by Christ Church, Oxford. The wide variety of maps and other documents relating to these estates provides valuable evidence on the thought processes of those who made and used early estate maps, emphasising the key role played by map-conscious individuals. Dr.

Fletcher includes detailed case histories by which he not only compares and contrasts the use of maps with other means of depicting landed estates, but also provides considerable insight into social and economic conditions during the period. His book includes 32 colour photographs of maps, many reproduced for the first time.