Help Us Conserve Our Rare 1746 Map of London
One of the most remarkable objects at Chawton House is our 1746 map of London by John Rocque—a vast and intricate depiction of the city at a pivotal moment in its history. Created in the decades after the Great Fire of London, it was the first map of London produced using surveying techniques we would recognise today, capturing the city in extraordinary detail.
Our copy is especially rare. Originally issued as 24 separate prints, it was later transformed into a striking Regency-era folding screen—eight large panels that bring Georgian London vividly to life.
But this uniqueness also makes it vulnerable.
Years of exposure to light and fluctuating environmental conditions have caused deterioration. Earlier repair attempts—now outdated—have added further strain, and areas of historic damage remain visible. Without specialist conservation, the map risks further loss.
Thanks to generous support, we have already raised the majority of the funds needed for conservation. We now need £2,000 to complete the work.
This project will not only stabilise and preserve the map for future generations, but also allow us to:
- Reimagine how it is displayed and interpreted in the House
- Connect it more deeply to the stories of women writers in London
- Develop digital and offsite ways for audiences to explore it
This is one of our most-loved objects—seen by thousands of visitors each year. With your help, we can ensure it remains a centrepiece of the collection, not just as a historic map, but as a living gateway into London’s literary past.
Donate today and help us bring this extraordinary object back to life.
To Donate
If you are UK-based, you can make a secure one-off donation using your debit or credit card by filling out the form here:
If you are based in the USA, please visit the North American Friends of Chawton House website.