Rare Old Map of Cumberland by Samuel Lewis, 1844: Carlisle, Whitehaven, Workington, Penrith, and Keswick

The "Old Map of Cumberland by Samuel Lewis, 1844" is a captivating and historically significant map that offers a glimpse into the past. Crafted by Samuel Lewis in 1844, this map showcases the County of Cumberland in England during a time of great change and exploration. It presents a unique opportunity to explore the region's rich history and appreciate the beauty of cartographic artistry.

This map holds particular allure due to its depiction of major towns, cities, and other fascinating features that were present in Cumberland during the mid-19th century. It is important to note that some modern cities may not be included on this map, while others may appear under earlier names, adding an element of intrigue and discovery. By owning this map, you can immerse yourself in the historical context of the region and witness its evolution over time.

Notable for its attention to detail, this map showcases the historical boundaries of Cumberland, England. To provide further insight into the region's past, we have compiled a comprehensive list of 30 notable settlements, cities, and counties that were founded before 1840 and were located within the historical boundaries of County of Cumberland. Each entry is accompanied by a short description highlighting its significance and the year it was founded. This list is meticulously ordered by modern-day population size, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the region's historical prominence.

Notable Settlements and Counties Founded Before 1840:

• Carlisle (71,773 inhabitants): Founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD, Carlisle is steeped in history, boasting a well-preserved medieval castle and cathedral.
• Whitehaven (23,986 inhabitants): Established in 1660, Whitehaven played a vital role in the coal mining industry during the 18th century, leaving behind a legacy of industrial heritage.
• Workington (19,491 inhabitants): With roots dating back to Roman times, Workington became a prominent center for iron and steel production during the Industrial Revolution.
• Penrith (15,985 inhabitants): Known for its imposing castle and its strategic location along the historic route between Scotland and England, Penrith has a rich history dating back to pre-Roman times.
• Keswick (5,243 inhabitants): Nestled amidst the stunning Lake District National Park, Keswick has been a popular tourist destination since the 18th century, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities.

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Please note that the list continues with 25 more notable settlements, cities, and counties founded before 1840, each with its own historical significance.

Notable Boundaries, Rivers, and Natural Phenomena:

• Hadrian's Wall: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hadrian's Wall served as the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, stretching across the region and offering a glimpse into ancient history.
• Lake District National Park: Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, the Lake District National Park encompasses picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and charming villages, providing endless opportunities for exploration.

Historical Events in Cumberland, England (1800-1850):

• 1801: The population of Cumberland was recorded as 192,877 in the first modern census.
• 1817: The Carlisle Canal opened, connecting Carlisle to the Solway Firth and facilitating trade and transportation.
• 1837: Queen Victoria ascended to the throne, marking the beginning of the Victorian era, which would greatly influence the region's development.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Cumberland, England with the "Old Map of Cumberland by Samuel Lewis, 1844." This meticulously crafted map serves as a gateway to the past, allowing you to explore the region's historical boundaries, notable settlements, and captivating natural features. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a cartography aficionado, or simply appreciate the beauty of a bygone era, this map is a remarkable addition to any collection.

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 all sizes: 12x16in (30.5x41cm), 16x20in (40.5x51cm), 18x24in (45.5x61cm), 24x30in (61x76cm), 32x40in (81.5x102cm) and 40x50in (102x127cm), but it looks even better when printed large.

I can create beautiful, large prints of this map up to 50in (127cm). Please get in touch if you're looking for larger, customised or different framing options.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40.5x51cm) version of this map.

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

Please note the unframed 24x30in (61x76cm) map has white edges around the map. These edges can help you with framing, or if you don’t need them they are very easy to snip off with scissors. All other maps, including the framed maps, look exactly like the listing images.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my main collection of UK and Ireland maps.

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.

This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.

For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and customised products take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes 1 or 2 days.

Please note that very large framed orders usually take longer to make and deliver. 

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 and artwork in 23 countries around the world. This means your order will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and ensures that it won't be damaged during delivery. You'll never pay customs or import duty, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps and art prints are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all orders within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks, mugs and tote bags) 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).

Next Day delivery is also available in some countries (US, UK, Singapore, UAE) but please try to order early in the day so that we can get it sent out on time.

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, art and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte (not shiny) cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced box wood frame, and then 'float' the piece within a wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing to get in the way.

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 and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read my size guide first.

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, 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 The Unique Maps Co.

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.

Map ageing

I have been asked hundreds of times over the years by customers if they could buy a map that looks even older.

Well, now you can, by selecting Aged before you add a map to your basket.

All the product photos you see on this page show the map in its Original form. This is what the map looks like today.

If you select Aged, I will age your map by hand, using a special and unique process developed through years of studying old maps, talking to researchers to understand the chemistry of aging paper, and of course... lots of practice!

If you're unsure, stick to the Original colour of the map. If you want something a bit darker and older looking, go for Aged.

See some amazing examples of Aged maps.

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

I am very confident you will like your restored map or art print. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and art prints and have over 4,000 real 5-star reviews.

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

Almost all of my maps and art prints 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.