1839 Birmingham

By: J. Henshall / S.D.U.K Date: 1839 (Published) London Dimensions: 13.5 x 16 inches (34.3 cm x 41 cm) This lovely antique map of Birmingham was engraved and printed by J. Henshall and published by the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge (SDUK). This society was founded by British statesman (Lord Chancellor) Henry Broughman, for the purpose of making educational materials available to those of the rapidly expanding reading public who had limited financial means and for those who preferred self-education. The materials were available to large swathes of the public at modest prices. The map itself shows Birmingham as it appeared in the first half of the nineteenth century, and provides a wealth of information. All streets, waterways including canals and locks, wharfs, thoroughfares and railways are denoted as are 'burial grounds' and depots of different kinds. Of interest are the many industrial concerns detailed by Henshall. He also includes major churches and other religious