I love maps. And history. And I love maps about history. And I love historical maps. Can you spot the differences?

History is complex not least because we are reading snapshots, personal perspectives, shaped by cultural pressures and strong preferences. Also because the tools used for measuring, recording, and sharing information have limits. So we have pieces of the picture. For maps, we have some pin points. And we can make confident (or hesitant) guesses about filling in the gaps. Sometimes the most helpful information is what has been kept locally. And that comes back to history again. I love it.

Im working on my own collection of hand-copied maps. It’s a hands-on project that helps me notice the details, slow down and focus, and learn the ins and outs of the lay of the land. Think of a school crayon picture to hang on the fridge. But the kid is so proud that they drew their family house and dog. That’s my skill level. My goal is to have my desk drawer full of paper maps I drew, like a monk’s chest of documents.

I know there is a map subreddit. But. Other good sources you know of for Anglo-Saxon history maps? Any favorite maps you want to share?