Backing Beck

One of the strongest growth areas of map collecting is London transport, and in particular the diagrammatic maps designed for London Underground by Harry Beck (1902-1974).

Cartographically-speaking, they were revolutionary.  Prior to the Beck diagram, the various underground lines were superimposed geographically over a simplified road map.

I bought one of his handy pocket-sized tri-fold designs, published in 1959, from Jonathan Potter Ltd recently. It is I believe the penultimate Beck-designed tube map (correct me if you know better).

1959 Beck Underground map

The first issue of Beck’s iconic map, still so familiar and upon which the current map is still based, was published in January 1933.  The ‘electrical circuit’ design dispensed with conventions of scale, accurate bearing and all surface landmarks – apart from the dear old River Thames, whose sinous, stylized curves flow through the lower portion.

2nd edition of the Beck pocket map issued February 1933. Special version for the opening of Southgate and Enfield West stations. Sold recently for £900 at auction.

Beck’s freelance updates were ignored by London Underground after 1960 – sparking a bitter legal tussle. Indeed, his 29-page personal scrapbook, which came up for auction in June, includes a rejection letter from London Transport.

Personal scrapbook of Harry Beck, sold recently at auction for £5,000

The various editions of Beck’s map not only chart the expanding, ever-developing city that is London.  They reflect the changing priorities of Londoners and tourists, and the evolving stylistic tastes of pre- and post-war Britain.

My advice: next time you visit a collectors fair or flea market, ferret right down to the bottom of that box of maps.