I have a book, in similar format and subject on my own area showing excerpts from all the relevant mapping from the earliest to current times, the fascination being one of watching change happening as it does here in John Moore’s book. From the very beginnings, a tiny Glasgow steadily growing until it needs a map just to show where the sludge vessel is going to tip its load. Then, of course there are the world-famous docks, changing and developing along the banks of the Clyde. There are small towns obliterated by grandiose plans, naval maps and town plans, sewage works and ferries. It is quite startling to pass beyond some beautiful maps to a modern-day map of Strathclyde Loch which looks like a child’s drawing, thankfully that chapter is very short so we can go back and linger longer on the beauty of the mapmakers art. ~ Sue Baker
The Clyde is arguably the most evocative of Scottish rivers. Its mention conjures up a variety of images of power, productivity and pleasure from its `bonnie banks' through the orchards of south Lanarkshire to its association with shipbuilding and trade and the holiday memories of thousands who fondly remember going `doon the watter'. Its story reflects much of the history of the lands it flows through and the people who live on its banks. This book looks at the maps which display the river itself from its source to the wide estuary which is as much a part of the whole image. It discusses how the river was mapped from its earliest depictions and includes such topics as navigation, river crossings, war and defence, tourism, sport and recreation, industry and power and urban development.
John Moore is a specialist on Scottish cartography and has published widely on the subject over a period of many years. He is currently Collections Manager at Glasgow University. He is the author of Glasgow: Mapping the City (Birlinn, 2015).
