Old Pictorial Map of East Africa by Mathews, 1949: Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda

Embark on a Journey through East Africa with the 1949 Pictorial Map

Dive into the rich tapestry of East Africa as depicted in the 1949 pictorial map titled "East Africa," a vibrant artifact crafted by the esteemed D.O. Mathews, a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. This map, a product of meticulous artistry and geographical precision, was commissioned by the East Africa Tourist Travel Association and created in Glasgow, Scotland. It serves not only as a navigational aid but as a visual celebration of the region's diverse landscapes and wildlife. The map covers the expanse from Ethiopia and Somalia in the north, stretching down through Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, and reaching into parts of the Belgian Congo and Northern Rhodesia, offering a panoramic view of this dynamic region.

A Cartographic Celebration of Natural Wonders and Wildlife

The 1949 map of East Africa is a thematic and pictorial marvel, focusing on the natural beauty that defines the region. It highlights major lakes like Victoria, Tanganyika, and Nyasa, and grand rivers such as the Nile and Zambezi, which are lifelines to the ecosystems around them. The map also details significant mountain ranges including Kilimanjaro, Kenya, and the Ruwenzori Mountains, all of which are depicted with artistic flair. This map does more than just show locations; it brings to life the Serengeti Plains, the Rift Valley, and other natural wonders, making it a captivating visual story of East Africa's geographical diversity.

A Snapshot of Urban and Rural Life in the Mid-20th Century

This map also provides a fascinating glimpse into the urban and rural landscapes of East Africa during a pivotal time in its history. Cities like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Kampala are marked, reflecting their importance even during the colonial era. The map’s detailed depiction of smaller towns and rural areas provides insight into the broader socio-economic conditions of the time. This historical context is crucial, as it was a period marked by movements towards independence from colonial rule, making this map a valuable snapshot of a transformative epoch in East African history.

Artistic Flair and Educational Insight

Mathews' work is distinguished by its artistic integrity and educational value. The map is interspersed with illustrations of local wildlife, such as elephants, lions, and rhinos, which draw attention to the region's rich biodiversity. These illustrations are not merely decorative but serve an educational purpose, highlighting the conservation areas like national parks and game reserves that are crucial for the preservation of these species. This artistic approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the map but also functions as a subtle reminder of the importance of environmental conservation.

A Legacy Captured in Cartography

The 1949 East Africa map by D.O. Mathews stands as a testament to the region's complex history and natural beauty. It is more than a geographical tool; it is a piece of art that tells the story of East Africa’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage at a significant moment in time. For collectors, historians, and admirers of cartography, this map offers a unique blend of visual allure and historical insight, making it a prized possession for anyone fascinated by the rich tapestry of East Africa.

Cities and towns on this map

Kenya:

• Nairobi: 3,375,000
• Mombasa: 1,208,000
• Kisumu: 509,000
• Nakuru: 496,000
• Eldoret: 289,000
• Meru: 221,000
• Nyeri: 208,000
• Thika: 207,000
• Garissa: 190,000
• Malindi: 181,000
• Lamu: 17,000

Tanzania:

• Dar es Salaam: 4,364,000
• Mwanza: 706,000
• Arusha: 416,000
• Dodoma: 410,000
• Mbeya: 385,000
• Tanga: 273,000
• Morogoro: 269,000
• Moshi: 200,000
• Tabora: 197,000
• Kigoma: 194,000
• Iringa: 156,000
• Lindi: 143,000
• Shinyanga: 109,000
• Singida: 107,000
• Kahama: 99,000
• Musoma: 93,000
• Bukoba: 89,000
• Sumbawanga: 85,000
• Geita: 84,000
• Kilosa: 79,000
• Korogwe: 77,000
• Kondoa: 69,000
• Babati: 67,000
• Pangani: 66,000
• Nzega: 64,000
• Vwawa: 63,000
• Biharamulo: 59,000
• Sengerema: 58,000
• Tunduru: 57,000
• Mpanda: 56,000
• Urambo: 55,000
• Lushoto: 54,000
• Nachingwea: 53,000
• Mafia: 52,000
• Nanyamba: 51,000
• Ruangwa: 51,000
• Liwale: 49,000
• Masasi: 49,000
• Kilwa Kivinje: 48,000
• Ujiji: 48,000
• Bagamoyo: 47,000
• Bunda: 47,000
• Handeni: 46,000
• Mbinga: 46,000
• Same: 45,000
• Malinyi: 44,000
• Ngorongoro: 44,000
• Kibondo: 43,000
• Kiteto: 43,000
• Mvomero: 43,000
• Ngara: 43,000
• Uvinza: 43,000
• Uyovu: 43,000
• Chunya: 42,000
• Karagwe: 42,000
• Makambako: 42,000
• Mtwara: 42,000
• Songea: 42,000

Uganda:

• Kampala: 1,507,000
• Gulu: 145,000
• Lira: 98,000
• Jinja: 72,000
• Masaka: 69,000
• Mbale: 68,000
• Soroti: 67,000
• Arua: 59,000
• Hoima: 58,000
• Iganga: 57,000

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Main Map of East Africa
• Illustrations of local wildlife
• Lake Victoria
• Lake Tanganyika
• Lake Nyasa
• Serengeti Plains
• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Mount Kenya
• The Rift Valley
• The Usambara Mountains
• The Aberdare Range
• The Ruwenzori Mountains
• The Ethiopian Highlands
• The Somali Desert
• The Indian Ocean
• The Red Sea
• The Gulf of Aden
• The Congo River
• The Nile River
• The Zambezi River

Historical and design context

• Map Title: East Africa
• Mapmaker or Publisher: D.O. Mathews, Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, for the East Africa Tourist Travel Association
• Date: 1949
• Design or Style: Thematic and pictorial map focusing on the natural beauty of East Africa
• Historical Significance: Reflects the political and social climate of East Africa during the late 1940s, a period marked by the struggle for independence from colonial rule

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 100in (250cm). 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 16x20in (40x50cm) 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.

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. On maps up to 36 inches (91cm) the frame is 1.5-3cm (0.6in to 1in) wide. I use thicker frames on larger maps - usually between 35 and 60mm (1.4in to 2.4in).

In all cases 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.

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.

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

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.

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 have specialist printing and framing facilities in 17 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 maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, extremely rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

I print with Epson ultrachrome giclée UV fade resistant pigment inks - some of the best inks you can find.

I can also make maps on canvas, cotton rag and other exotic materials.

Learn more about how the Unique Maps Co. sources and restores old maps

Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

The options are almost infinite. Please see my map personalisation page for some wonderful examples of what's possible.

To order a personalised map, select "personalise your map" before adding it to your basket.

Get in touch if you're looking for more complex customisations and personalisations.

If you are not happy with your unique map for any reason, contact me for a no-quibble refund.

I am very confident you will like your old map. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and have over 1,500 real 5-star reviews.

I use a unique process to restore my maps that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore the maps. As a result, I guarantee my maps are a cut above the rest - that's why I can offer a no-quibble refund.

Almost all of my maps look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.