Conservation Treatment of Samuel Holland’s Map of St John’s Island, 1765

Abstract

Abstract Historically, conservation of maps included the application of silk facings, heavy cloth backings and use of inappropriate adhesives. This combination of papers, linings and adhesives often causes undulations, tenting and stiffness, hindering their use. Furthermore, silk yellows over time, which compromises the visual interpretation. The National Archives UK faced these problems when preparing Samuel Holland’s 1765 3×4 m map of St John’s Island for display. This paper outlines the complex conservation treatment of a large scale paper object, the creative and innovative techniques developed and the challenges of preparing such an object for display. All products from previous repairs in 1973 were removed using aqueous treatments, the distorted map was mended and realigned and in a major undertaking this large scale object was lined, using up to date techniques. This required building a bridge and a platform and forming a team of 12 colleagues to accomplish the complex and challenging multi-layered lining. A better understanding of treatments and materials available today enabled a successful conservation treatment, which left the map more accessible, visually engaging and flexible for the future, whilst changing protocols of future treatment of maps at The National Archives with application for the wider conservation community.