An Exact Chart of the River St. Laurence, from Fort Frontenac to the Island of Anticosti shewing the Soundings, Rocks, Shoals &c. with Views of the Lands and All Necessary Instructions for Navigating that River to Quebec

JEFFERYS, Thomas

Published by Robert Sayer, London, 1775

About this Item

Sea chart. Uncolored engraving. Image measures 23.75" x 37.25". This 1775 map by Thomas Jeffreys presents a detailed depiction of the St. Lawrence River, from Lake Ontario to the sea. The river is divided into two sections: from Lake Ontario to Quebec and from Quebec to the sea. Detailed notes on navigation and depth soundings are included and shows critical points and features of the river, making it a significant early British mapping of the St. Lawrence River. Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of the map is the unique decorative borders surrounding each inset, an uncommon feature that enhances its visual appeal. The ornamental elements separate and highlight the various insets, including "The Seven Islands," "St. Nicholas or English Harbor," "The Road of Tadousac," "The Traverse from Cape Torment to the South Channel of Orleans Islands," and an elevation view of the land from Cape Torment to the Butt. This decorative approach adds a notable aesthetic quality to the map, setting it apart from typical nautical charts of the period. The map is in good condition with some foxing. Two sheets joined, as originally issued. Originally compiled by Thomas Jefferys in 1757 from French sources, the map integrates Jean Deshayes' 1695 survey of the north bank and d'Anville's 1755 map of the south shore. Deshayes, appointed by the French Government, conducted a hydrographic survey of the St. Lawrence River between 1685 and 1686 but left the colony before completing it. His work was later published and updated, contributing to this map's detailed depiction. Thomas Jefferys (1695 - 1771) was a leading mapmaker known for his detailed and influential maps of North America and the West Indies. Apprenticed to engraver Emmanuel Bowen in 1735, Jefferys began his career by engraving maps for "Gentleman's Magazine" before establishing his own business. In 1746, he was appointed Geographer to Frederick, Prince of Wales, and became Royal Cartographer to King George III in 1760. Despite facing financial difficulties and bankruptcy, Jefferys' work was rescued and republished by Robert Sayer. His maps remained influential through posthumous editions by Sayer, Bennet, and others. Jefferys was succeeded by his son Thomas Jefferys Jr., and his plates eventually passed to William Faden. His contributions have had a lasting impact on cartographic history, particularly in the mapping of North America. Robert Sayer (1725 - 1794) was a prominent English publisher and engraver of maps, portraits, and nautical charts active in the mid to late 18th century. Notably, he supported Thomas Jefferys during Jefferys' bankruptcy in 1766, acquiring valuable map plates in the process. Sayer's partnerships with John Bennett, and later with Robert Laurie and James Whittle, further solidified his influence in the map publishing industry. His work, especially important for its focus on British maps related to the American Revolutionary War, continued to shape the field long after his retirement. Sayer's son, James Sayer, continued the publishing business after his death. Seller Inventory # 322881

Bibliographic Details

Title: An Exact Chart of the River St. Laurence, ...

Publisher: Robert Sayer, London

Publication Date: 1775

Binding: unbound