How to Find 19th-Century Shipping Route Maps: Europe to North America

Online Resources

• National Archives (NARA): Search catalog for historical nautical charts and shipping maps.
• British Library: Extensive digitized map collection; search "shipping routes" or "trade routes."
• Historic Map Works: Commercial site selling high-quality reproductions.
• University Library Catalogs: Many have special collections (e.g., Harvard, Yale, UC Berkeley).
• Digital Atlases: Sites like David Rumsey Map Collection, Old Maps Online.
• Antique Map Dealers: May have original or reproduction charts.

Physical Institutions

• Local Libraries & Historical Archives: Often hold regional maritime collections.
• Maritime Museums: (e.g., Mystic Seaport, Mariners' Museum, National Maritime Museum UK) exhibit and sometimes sell maps.
• Historical Societies: Regional societies may have port-specific route maps.

Tips

Check copyright/restrictions. Consult multiple sources for comprehensive route pictures.