Historical information

This is an Official British Admiralty Navigation Chart, one of a set of 65 charts donated together with a wooden chart case. It was published and printed in London in 1928 by the British Admiralty.

Navigation charts are drawn by professional hydrographers and describe the geography of land and water, enabling a water based navigator on board vessels such as ships to safely negotiate between ports locally and around the world. They are drawn to a particular standard with common symbols noting landmarks. The charts are used in conjunction with other navigational instruments and tools to calculate the vessel’s exact location and a safe route to its destination.

Significance

The set of charts and their chart are of significance as examples of equipment and documents used to navigate the oceans of the world, particularly to Australia. Migration to Australia is an important part of this country's history.

Physical description

British Admiralty Navigation Chart - Portsmouth to Canary Islands - printed on rectangular white paper.
Published in London by the British Admiralty in 1928.