The Milne map of 1800 London
The Milne map is a curious addition to the historical maps of London in this is concentrates upon the landuse around the capital – which fields are arable, pasture, orchards etc. whereas the whole of the central metropolis is simply grey.
“Thomas Milne’s Land Use Map of London and Environs in 1800” built upon work by the cartographer between 1795 and 1799. It provides a unique and rare glimpse into the land usage in London during that time. Out of the numerous maps produced by Milne, this particular publication stands alone with his imprint as a map publisher.
What sets Milne’s map apart from its predecessors is not only its ambitious scope and accurate information but also its innovative presentation. Using a colour code and lettering system, Milne effectively distinguishes between twelve different land-use categories, resulting in an unparalleled depiction of London and its surrounding areas during a period of rapid transformation.
The map primarily focuses on the western, southern, and southwestern regions bordering the River Thames. These areas were gradually being cleared of clay and gravel pits to make room for nurseries, market gardens, orchards, pastures, and meadows. As London’s population grew, the demand for food increased, and these regions played a crucial role in cultivating fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Additionally, the map highlights the numerous streams that once flowed through the city but have since been diverted into the sewer network.
Covering approximately 260 square miles on a scale of two inches to a mile, the six-sheet map spans from Harrow Weald to Woodford and Hampton-on-Thames to Sundridge Park. Milne meticulously surveyed and labelled each field and enclosure, using letters such as ‘a’ for enclosed arable land, ‘m’ for enclosed meadow and pasture, ‘p’ for paddocks and small parks, and ‘g’ for enclosed market gardens.
Despite his significant achievement, little is known about Thomas Milne. He was a skilled cartographer specialising in estate and county mapping, operating from premises in Knightsbridge by 1800. As a member of the Society of Civil Engineers, Milne likely had access to contemporary Ordnance Survey maps, from which he incorporated details into his own work. However, due to the potential conflict with the Ordnance Survey’s data disclosure, only a limited number of copies of Milne’s map were produced before the project was halted.
Regent’s Park area in 1800
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