John Cary

John Cary was an English cartographer who lived from about 1754 to 1835. After apprenticing as an engraver in London, he opened his own business on the Strand in 1783 and quickly built a strong reputation for maps and globes.

His New and Correct English Atlas from 1787 became a standard reference work in England. He later produced major road surveys, including Cary's New Itinerary in 1798 after being commissioned by the Postmaster General to survey England's roads, and he also created Ordnance Survey maps before 1805.

Later in life, Cary collaborated with geologist William Smith on geological maps. He is remembered for the accuracy and workmanship of his maps, as well as for a long list of influential publications covering Britain, Scotland, Canada, and beyond.