Battle of Trafalgar Historic Wall Map Laurie & Whittle 1805

A Masterpiece of Military Cartography Commemorating Nelson’s Greatest Triumph

Experience the thunder of cannon fire, the swell of sails, and the strategic brilliance of Admiral Lord Nelson in this extraordinary reproduction of the Battle of Trafalgar wall map, originally published in 1805 by the esteemed London publishers Laurie & Whittle.

More than a simple chart, this map is a dramatic broadside celebrating the most pivotal naval engagement of the Napoleonic Wars. It illustrates in vivid detail the fleet formations, battle lines, and Nelson’s daring “crossing of the T” tactic that shattered the combined French and Spanish forces and changed the course of European history.

This historic print is ideal for collectors, educators, naval historians, and lovers of fine cartography. It also pairs wonderfully with fans of The Rest is History podcast series covering Trafalgar and the Life of Nelson.

🔍 Key Features at a Glance

🖼️ A Work of Art and a Document of History

At the heart of this map lies a powerful narrative: the movements of British ships as they divide and conquer their numerically superior opponents. The celebrated manoeuvre—“crossing the T”—is portrayed with striking clarity. Alongside the strategic layout, you’ll find a vignette depicting the death of Nelson, engraved with emotion and reverence, capturing the cost and glory of his ultimate victory.

It’s a map to admire and study, drawing you into the tension and drama of a battle that helped secure Britain’s command of the seas for over a century.

Available Finishes – Choose Your Presentation

We offer this remarkable historical map in a choice of three professional-grade finishes, each suited for different needs and spaces:

1. Heavyweight Archival Paper (160 gsm)

• Classic matte finish perfect for traditional framing under glass

• Smooth surface enhances linework and historical text clarity

• Ideal for collectors, home libraries, studies, and framed gifts

• Acid-free and archival for long-term preservation

2. Encapsulated Gloss Laminate (80 Micron x 2)

• Protected by two sheets of 80-micron gloss laminate

• True encapsulation: waterproof, tear-resistant, UV-resistant

• Suitable for high-traffic or educational settings

• Can be used with whiteboard markers for teaching and discussion

• Long-lasting and easily cleaned—perfect for classrooms, libraries, or public displays

3. Archival Matte Canvas (395 gsm HP Professional)

• Printed using pigment-based inks for exceptional colour depth and fade resistance

• Museum-grade canvas enhances the visual texture and richness of the original engraving

• Adds presence and gravitas to any room—ideal for elegant office walls or heritage displays

• Highly durable and resistant to warping or damage over time

Optional Wooden Hang Rails 

For laminated & canvas editions, elevate your presentation with natural timber hang rails attached top and bottom.

• Hand-lacquered in a neutral finish to suit a range of interiors

• Includes a top-mounted cord for quick, secure wall hanging

• Offers an elegant alternative to traditional framing

• Keeps the map flexible and rollable for easy transport or relocation

Note: Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery of hang-railed versions, as these are custom-assembled by our professional framer.

What Makes This Map Special?

✅ True Historical Reproduction – Not a modern redesign, but a faithful replica of a period-authenticated map.
✅ Dramatic Visual Detail – Shows naval formation, ship positions, and historical engravings.
✅ A Tribute to Nelson – Includes an artistic vignette honouring his death at the height of victory.
✅ Ideal Gift for History Enthusiasts – A standout piece for birthdays, graduations, or anniversaries.
✅ Museum-Worthy Display – Looks just as at home in a private study as it would in a naval museum.
✅ Supports Historical Education – Perfect for use in classrooms or history presentations.

🛒 Ordering Options

• Select your preferred finish from the dropdown menu above.
• For hang-railed canvas maps, please allow an additional 10 business days for assembly and dispatch.

Perfect For

• Admirers of Lord Nelson and British naval history

• Students and teachers studying the Napoleonic Wars

• Podcast listeners (The Rest is History, Hardcore History, etc.)

• Military museums, collectors, and re-enactors

• Elegant home or office wall décor with historical depth

📜 About the Publishers: Laurie & Whittle

Samuel Laurie and Robert Whittle were among the leading London map publishers of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Their work combined decorative artistry with military and maritime relevance, making their prints highly collectible today. This 1805 issue celebrates not only Nelson’s tactical genius but also the high standard of cartographic engraving in Georgian Britain.