Rare Old Map of The Atlantic Telegraph by Bacon & Co., 1865: Great Eastern Steamship, UK, Newfoundland, Cable Routes

Step back in time with this exquisite 1865 map, "The Atlantic Telegraph," masterfully crafted by Bacon & Co. This historically significant piece is not just a map but a celebration of one of the greatest achievements in communication history—the successful laying of the first transatlantic telegraph cable by the Great Eastern steamer ship. The map features two detailed sections: one of the Atlantic, showcasing the telegraph cable route, and another of the world, illustrating existing and proposed telegraph routes. This map is a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the 19th century, marking a pivotal moment when Europe and America were first connected by instant communication.

The centerpiece of this map is the beautifully illustrated Great Eastern steamer ship, the vessel that made the transatlantic telegraph cable a reality. This ship, a marvel of its time, is depicted in stunning detail, accompanied by a longitudinal section that offers a glimpse into its impressive construction. The map also includes a wealth of informative text, chronicling the history and significance of the Atlantic Telegraph, the challenges faced during its laying, and the ultimate success of the 1866 expedition. This narrative enriches the map, making it not just a visual delight but also an educational treasure.

The map is adorned with vibrant colors that distinguish different regions and routes, making it both aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate. The Atlantic section highlights the telegraph cable route, stretching from the United Kingdom to Newfoundland, and includes detailed lists of telegraph cable distances. The world map section expands the scope, showing telegraph routes across Europe, America, and proposed routes that hint at the future of global communication. This dual-map format underscores the monumental impact of the Atlantic Telegraph on worldwide connectivity.

Beyond its visual appeal, this map serves as a historical document, providing insights into the technological advancements of the 19th century. The detailed text surrounding the maps offers a comprehensive overview of the telegraph cable's construction, the materials used, and the technical specifications that made this groundbreaking achievement possible. It also delves into the broader implications of the telegraph cable, discussing its influence on international relations, global trade, and society at large. This map is not just a representation of a physical route but a symbol of progress and innovation.

Owning this map is like holding a piece of history in your hands. It captures a moment when the world became smaller and more connected, thanks to the pioneering spirit of those who dared to dream of instant communication across vast oceans. This map is perfect for history enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone who appreciates the intricate blend of art, science, and history. Display it proudly as a reminder of human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of progress.

Places on this map

• North America
• Europe
• The Atlantic Ocean
• United Kingdom
• Ireland
• Newfoundland
• New York
• France
• Spain
• Portugal
• Germany
• Denmark
• Norway
• Sweden
• Russia
• Italy
• Egypt
• India
• Australia

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Illustration of the Great Eastern steamer ship
• Map of the Atlantic showing the telegraph cable route
• Map of the World showing telegraph routes and proposed routes
• Detailed text describing the history and significance of the Atlantic Telegraph
• Longitudinal section of the Great Eastern ship
• List of telegraph cable distances
• Chronological list of telegraph expeditions and attempts
• Diagram of the telegraph cable
• Text describing the attempts of 1865 and the expedition of 1866
• Text on the proposed routes for future telegraph lines
• Information on the construction and design of the Great Eastern
• Text on the success of the 1866 expedition
• Information on the telegraph cable's impact on communication
• Details on the telegraph cable's construction and materials
• Text on the challenges faced during the telegraph cable's laying
• Information on the telegraph cable's maintenance
• Details on the telegraph cable's operation
• Text on the impact of the telegraph cable on global communication
• Information on the telegraph cable's historical context
• Text on the future of telegraph communication
• Description of the telegraph cable's significance in history
• Information on the telegraph cable's legacy
• Text on the telegraph cable's influence on international relations
• Description of the telegraph cable's role in global trade
• Information on the telegraph cable's impact on society
• Text on the technical advancements in telegraphy
• Description of the telegraph cable's contribution to modern communication

Historical and design context

• An interesting piece, containing two maps and a beautiful illustration of the Great Eastern steamer ship
• The Great Eastern was the first ship to successfully lay a telegraph cable across the Atlantic, known as the Atlantic Telegraph
• There are two maps, one of the Atlantic and one of the World
• They show other cables in Europe, America, and proposed telegraph and overland cable routes around the world
• Date created: 1865
• Mapmaker or publisher: Bacon & Co.
• The map features detailed illustrations and informative text
• It includes a prominent illustration of the Great Eastern steamer ship
• The map uses vibrant colors to distinguish different regions and routes
• The map commemorates the successful laying of the first transatlantic telegraph cable, a significant milestone in global communication
• The Atlantic Telegraph cable revolutionized communication by allowing instant communication between Europe and America

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.