Old OS Map of Orkney Islands by Bartholomew, 1901: Kirkwall, Stromness, Scapa Flow, Hoy, Pentland Firth, Mainland

Sheet 28 – Orkney Islands, created by the renowned cartographer J.G. Bartholomew in 1901, is a captivating blend of artistry and precision. This map, part of Bartholomew’s flagship half-inch to the mile series, is a testament to his innovative approach to cartography. Bartholomew’s expertise is evident in the map’s clear, attractive, and colorful design, which was highly popular among cyclists and tourists of the time. The map’s meticulous detailing and the use of different layers of color to represent landscape relief make it not only a valuable historical document but also a visual delight.

J.G. Bartholomew, a prominent Scottish cartographer, was instrumental in advancing thematic cartography and the use of color in maps to represent physical features. His work on this map reflects his dedication to making geographical information accessible and engaging. The Orkney Islands map is based on a reduced Ordnance Survey map from the same period, showcasing Bartholomew’s ability to distill complex geographical data into an easy-to-read and aesthetically pleasing format. His maps were known for their accuracy and clarity, making them indispensable tools for travelers and scholars alike.

The Orkney Islands map provides a detailed view of this unique archipelago off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It highlights the intricate network of islands, including Mainland, Hoy, South Ronaldsay, and many others. The map meticulously charts the various bodies of water that define the region, such as Pentland Firth, Scapa Flow, and The North Sound. Each island is rendered with precision, showing the topographical variations through a subtle gradation of color bands, which was a hallmark of Bartholomew’s cartographic style.

In addition to its geographical features, the map also marks the key towns and settlements of the Orkney Islands, such as Kirkwall, Stromness, and St. Margaret’s Hope. These towns, steeped in history, are depicted with a level of detail that offers insights into the region’s human geography at the turn of the 20th century. The map also includes various sounds and firths, providing a comprehensive view of the waterways that have played a crucial role in the islands’ history and development.

The historical significance of this map extends beyond its geographical accuracy. It captures a snapshot of the Orkney Islands during a period of significant change and development. The detailed depiction of political boundaries and physical landscapes offers a window into the past, allowing modern viewers to appreciate the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Bartholomew’s Orkney Islands map is not just a navigational tool but a piece of history that reflects the cartographic advancements and the growing interest in detailed and accessible maps for travel and exploration in the early 20th century.

Cities and towns on this map

• Mainland Orkney:
• Kirkwall
• Stromness
• Finstown

• St. Margaret’s Hope

• Hoy:

• Longhope

• South Ronaldsay:

• Burray Village

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Bodies of Water:
• Pentland Firth
• Scapa Flow
• The North Sound
• Eynhallow Sound
• Westray Firth
• Stronsay Firth
• Rousay Sound
• Wide Firth
• Shapinsay Sound
• Deer Sound
• Holm Sound
• Water Sound
• Kirk Sound
• Loth Sound
• Eday Sound

• Sanday Sound

• Islands:

• Mainland
• Hoy
• South Ronaldsay
• Burray
• Rousay
• Egilsay
• Wyre
• Gairsay
• Shapinsay
• Stronsay
• Sanday
• Eday
• Westray
• Papa Westray
• North Ronaldsay
• Flotta
• Graemsay
• South Walls

Historical and design context

• Map Name: Sheet 28 – Orkney Islands
• Scale and Popularity: Half-inch to the mile scale (1:126,720). Popular among cyclists and tourists.
• Date of Creation: 1901
• Mapmaker/Publisher: J.G. Bartholomew
• Context about the Mapmaker: Prominent Scottish cartographer known for detailed and innovative maps. Instrumental in thematic cartography and the use of color in maps.
• Design and Style: Clear, attractive, and colorful design. Uses different layers of color to represent landscape relief. Based on a reduced Ordnance Survey map from the same period.
• Historical Significance: Provides a snapshot of the Orkney Islands at the beginning of the 20th century. Reflects cartographic advancements and growing interest in detailed and accessible maps for travel and exploration.

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 70in (180cm). 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 20in (50cm) 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 18x24in (45x60cm) 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.