Rare Old Map of Jamaica by Tallis and Rapkin in 1851 - Kingston, Portmore, Montego Bay, Black River, Savanna la Mar

Introducing an exquisite piece of historical cartography: the 1851 rendition of Jamaica by the renowned John Tallis & Co. This detailed map, focusing on the vibrant island nation, is more than just a navigational tool; it's a snapshot of a time long past, offering a glimpse into the life and culture of mid-19th century Jamaica. The map, with its meticulous detail and artistry, is a testament to the skill and precision of its creators, making it a must-have for history buffs, map enthusiasts, and those with a love for Jamaica.

The map encompasses a wide array of locations, from the bustling city of Kingston to the serene Black River. Notably, it features Kingston, the capital city, a hub of commerce and culture even in the 1850s. Other key locations include Portmore, Montego Bay, Savanna la Mar, and Mandeville, each with their unique histories and contributions to the overall Jamaican narrative. The coastal towns of Ocho Rios and Negril, famous for their stunning beaches and tourist attractions today, are also depicted, offering a historical perspective on these popular destinations.

What makes this map particularly interesting is the context in which it was created. The 1850s was a transformative period for Jamaica, a mere two decades after the abolition of slavery on the island. The map, therefore, captures a nation in the midst of significant social and economic changes. Furthermore, the mapmaker, John Tallis & Co, was one of the last great Victorian cartographic firms, known for their detailed illustrations and decorative borders. Their distinctive style adds an additional layer of interest to this map, making it not just a geographical representation, but also a piece of art.

This map looks great at all sizes: 12x16in (30.5x41cm), 16x20in (40.5x51cm), 18x24in (45.5x61cm), 24x36in (61x91.5cm), 30x40in (76x101.5cm), 37x50in (94x127cm), 45x60in (114x152.5cm) and 52x70in (132x178cm), but it looks even better when printed large.

I can create beautiful, large prints of this map up to 70in (178cm). Please get in touch if you're looking for larger, customised or different framing options.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45.5x61cm) version of this map.

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

If you’re looking for something slightly different, another option would be this amazing map of the Caribbean by Willem Blaeu in 1640.

The locations on this map include: Kingston, Portmore, Montego Bay, Savanna la Mar, Black River, Mendeville, Ocho Rios and Negril.

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 or housewarming gift for someone interested in Jamaica or someone who has visited the beautiful island of Jamaica.

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.