John Cary (London, 1754 − 1835)

18^th – 19^th century, British

John Cary was an engraver, maker and seller of table globes, plans and maps. After serving his apprenticeship with William Palmer (fl. 1766-1798), beginning in 1770, he eventually set up his own business in London in 1783. On his death, his two sons George and John took over the running of the family business.

He was highly acclaimed for the publication of The New and Correct English Atlas in 1787. Later on, in 1794, he was appointed surveyor of roads to the General Post Office to survey and map Britain’s main post roads. Cary was, beyond all doubt, one of the greatest mapmakers of his time.

William Cary (London, 1759 − 1825)

18^th – 19^th century, British

A brother of John Cary, with whom he collaborated for a brief period, William Cary was a distinguished maker of scientific and astronomical instruments. He built the first ever meridian circle in the United Kingdom, a large rotating telescope for astronomical observations and measurements.

A pupil of the mathematician, astronomer and maker of scientific instruments Jesse Ramsdem (1735-1800), William Cary set up his own business in London in 1785.

A founding member of the Royal Astronomical Society, Cary is included in the Dictionary of National Biography.