Old Pictorial Map of Wiltshire by Clegg, 1946: Swindon, Salisbury, Stonehenge, Malmesbury Abbey, Lacock Abbey

The 1946 map of Wiltshire, created by the esteemed cartographer Ernest Clegg, is a magnificent example of mid-20th-century pictorial cartography. This map, rich in historical context and artistic detail, offers a vivid representation of Wiltshire, England, during a pivotal period. The map is adorned with intricate illustrations of landmarks such as Malmesbury Abbey, Lacock Abbey, and the iconic Salisbury Cathedral, capturing the essence of Wiltshire's architectural heritage. Clegg's work is not just a geographical tool but a celebration of the region's historical and cultural significance.

Ernest Clegg, known for his detailed and artistic maps, imbued this creation with both aesthetic appeal and informative content. His dedication to accuracy and artistry is evident in the relief shading that highlights the terrain and the meticulously drawn coats of arms that frame the map. Clegg's maps are not merely functional; they are works of art that tell a story, and this map of Wiltshire is no exception. It stands as a testament to his skill and passion for cartography.

The map is particularly notable for its depiction of Wiltshire's agricultural landscape during World War II. A detailed note describes the progress of agriculture and the invaluable contributions of the Land Army between 1939 and 1944. Areas of notable agricultural activity, such as dairying and sheep farming, are marked in red, providing a fascinating insight into the region's wartime economy. This thematic focus not only highlights the region's resilience but also its pivotal role in supporting the war effort.

In addition to its agricultural emphasis, the map features historical notes and scenes that enrich its narrative. The inclusion of figures like Jethro Tull and Richard Jefferies, alongside illustrations of historical events and landmarks, offers a layered understanding of Wiltshire's past. The border of the map is adorned with views of significant landmarks and scenes, creating a visual journey through the county's history and heritage. Each element is carefully chosen to reflect the rich tapestry of Wiltshire's cultural and historical landscape.

Wiltshire's geographical features are meticulously detailed, with major cities and towns such as Swindon, Salisbury, and Trowbridge clearly marked. The map also shows the intricate network of roads and rivers that crisscross the county, providing a comprehensive view of its topography. The inclusion of a compass rose and relief shading adds to the map's navigational utility, while the dedication note in the lower margin underscores its historical significance. This map is not just a representation of Wiltshire; it is a window into its soul, capturing the essence of a region steeped in history and tradition.

Cities and towns on this map

• Swindon
• Salisbury
• Trowbridge
• Chippenham
• Warminster
• Devizes
• Melksham
• Amesbury
• Marlborough
• Westbury
• Calne
• Corsham
• Wootton Bassett
• Malmesbury
• Bradford-on-Avon
• Tidworth
• Ludgershall
• Pewsey
• Cricklade
• Mere
• Wilton
• Highworth
• Downton

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Malmesbury Abbey
• Lacock Abbey
• Salisbury Cathedral
• Stonehenge
• Battle Training Area
• South West Command and R.A.S.C. Southern Command
• Wiltshire Regiment insignia
• Historical note on Jethro Tull
• Historical note on Richard Jefferies
• Note on the Land Army's contributions during World War II
• Depiction of agricultural activities (e.g., dairying, sheep and corn farming)
• Coats of arms of various regions and families
• Historical scenes and illustrations
• Relief shading to indicate terrain
• Compass rose in the lower right corner
• Dedication note in the lower margin

Historical and design context

• Creation date: 1946
• Mapmaker/Publisher: Ernest Clegg
• Themes and topics:
• Agriculture: The map includes a note describing the progress of agriculture and the work of the Land Army in Wiltshire during World War II (1939-1944).
• Historical notes: Blocks of historical notes are included on the map.
• Landmarks and scenes: The border features views of landmarks and scenes.
• Coats of arms: Various coats of arms are depicted around the map.
• Regions shown: Wiltshire, England, with neighboring counties (Berkshire, Hampshire, Dorset, Somerset, and Gloucestershire) partially visible.
• Design and style:
• Pictorial elements: The map is highly decorative with pictorial representations of landmarks and historical scenes.
• Relief: Relief is shown by shadings to indicate the terrain.
• Dedication note: Includes a dedication note in the lower margin.
• Historical significance:
• World War II context: The map highlights the contributions of the Land Army and the agricultural efforts in Wiltshire during World War II.
• Agricultural products: Notable agricultural products and farming areas are marked in red.
• Landmarks and historical context: The map provides historical context through its depiction of landmarks and historical notes.

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 90in (230cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

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. 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.

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 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 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 4,000 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.