Churchill’s Secret Chart Makers

Adrian Webb

Edition:	2024
Format:	Hardback

£29⁹⁵

VAT included

Delivery and Shipping

We aim to dispatch all orders by the next business day, but we're a small business and sometimes when it's busy it may take a little bit longer. If there's going to be any delays we'll get in touch and keep you up-to-date.

Shipping is free for all orders of £50 or more!

We work with Royal Mail, DPD and DHL to offer the most convenient delivery options to our customers.

Advice

Chris is a Master Mariner and knows a thing or two about seafaring. If you need any help then don't be shy - send us an email or get in touch using the WhatsApp icon.

Extended Returns

Not what you were looking for? No problem. We can accept returns of items in as-sold condition for up to 30 days (maybe a bit longer but don't tell anyone).

Any orders made from 14 November can be returned until the end of January!

Just let us know and we'll sort everything out, including the shipping cost back to us.

Unfortunately this doesn't apply to Print on Demand charts as they are correct at the time of printing.

Of course if there's any faults or damage then let us know and we'll make it right!

Uncover the Secrets of Churchill's Chart Makers

The untold story of the heroes who mapped the path to victory

Dive into the fascinating hidden history of World War Two with Churchill's Secret Chart Makers. This captivating book reveals the unsung heroes of the Hydrographic Department, the tireless individuals who provided the vital charts and navigational tools that guided the Allied forces to victory.

Author Dr Adrian Webb, a local historian, uncovers the remarkable story of these "secret chart makers" based in Taunton and Bath. Working in complete secrecy, they produced a staggering number of charts – almost seven million in 1944 alone! – ensuring that Allied vessels could navigate safely and effectively.

Here's what you'll discover within these pages:

The crucial role of the Hydrographic Department: Learn how their work was essential to the success of D-Day and other key operations.
Life behind the scenes: Gain insights into the daily lives and challenges faced by the chart makers, drawn from interviews and personal accounts.
A unique piece of local history: Explore the story of the purpose-built "CBH" chart making factory, designed in the Art Deco style and sadly demolished in 2021.

Praise for Churchill's Secret Chart Makers:

"Adrian Webb has done well to spot this important gap in our knowledge of the UKHO and its vital role in Britain’s war-time chart making...a highly readable, gloriously illustrated and brilliantly-researched account." — Dr Vanessa Collingridge, Author and Broadcaster
"It is so good that these [details] have been recorded and are now much more accessible through your work." — Mr Robert Ward, Former Secretary-General of the International Hydrographic Organization
"A superb tribute to the work that went into the mapping: people, places, processes, and products, fully referenced and lavishly illustrated." — Dr Jonathan Harlow, Avon Local History & Archaeology

More than just a history book, Churchill's Secret Chart Makers offers:

A tribute to unsung heroes: Discover the dedication and skill of those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
A fascinating glimpse into wartime Britain: Experience the challenges and triumphs of life on the home front.
A richly illustrated account: Bring the story to life with photographs, maps, and other visual treasures.

If you're interested in World War Two history, maritime history, or simply enjoy a good tale of human endeavour, then this book is a must-read.