The Shetlander Who Mapped Jamaica: James Robertson
London, UK
Little known surveyor and mapmaker James Robertson (1753-1829) went from the Shetland island of Yell to the Caribbean to seek his fortune. He produced an incredibly detailed and impressive map of Jamaica during the sugar boom which was highly praised at the time for its accuracy.
This talk will explore all aspects of Robertson's life and career in the Caribbean, and will consider why he could not replicate similar success after he returned to Britain.
Joanne Wishart was assistant archivist at Shetland Museum and Archives for 10 years and has spent the last eight years researching Robertson's life and work.