“Great Thoughts” Empire Map

Early 20th century pocket map to London’s transportation system.

This detailed transportation map of the Greater London area was sold by W.S. Redfern during the first decade of the 20th century. Several advertisements for the dealer, “the man for the most phenomenal value on earth”, can be seen at the top and pasted atop the original covers. The map was ‘sacrificed’ at a low price, likely because it was old stock acquired from the Metropolitan District Railway. Based on the railway outlines (notably, the electrified routes), the map was probably originally printed between 1903 and 1905. Given the rapidity with which updates were made to London’s railways during that period, it makes sense that the MDR would need to regularly issue new maps.

This example was apparently issued on behalf of (or perhaps to subscribers of) “Great Thoughts”, a weekly magazine that claims to contain “extracts from the MASTER MINDS of all countries and all ages.” The image shows the lines in operation by the London “District Railway” (a predecessor to today’s famous Underground), in addition to electric lines and other routes in operation or under construction. An inset map in the lower left shows additional details around Henley and Reading, both of which are situated further to the east of the primary image.

Many thanks to Will M. from the Charles Close Society for his assistance in refining the date and narrative. Source.