North America antique map. Keith Johnston, FRSE, c1856

by Johnston, Keith

Antique map of North America by Keith Johnston, engraved and published by W. & A.K. Johnston in Edinburgh and London, with contemporary pen outlining.

William Johnston (1802-1888) started as an engraver and printer in 1825 at 6 Hill Square in Edinburgh, and founded the family publishing firm of W. & A.K. Johnston. In 1826 William’s younger brother (Alexander) Keith Johnston (1804-1871) joined him in the family publishing house. With a particular interest in physical geography, after university Keith Johnston trained with international geographers, including Alexander von Humboldt. In 1841 his first atlas National Atlas of General Geography was published, and in 1843 he was appointed Geographer Royal for Scotland. (He adopted the title of “Geographer at Edinburgh in Ordinary to the Queen”.) In 1848 Keith Johnston’s Physical Atlas was published, and a larger edition was published in 1856.

Keith Johnson’s son, also named Alexander Keith Johnston, (1844-1879) was an explorer and geographer, who died in Africa while leading a Royal Geographical Society expedition to Lake Nyasa. He also published a number of geographical works. The successful publishing house of W. & A.K. Johnston continued for over 100 years; finally taking over the publishing company of Bacon & Co. in 1941.

This map is in fine condition. If you would like larger pic of any region please let us know. Price adjusted in consideration of the map's condition. Page approximate: 460 x 370mm (18" x 14 1/2"). 440 x 330mm (17 1/2" x 13").