Cartography, the art and science of making maps, has been around for centuries. Throughout history, cartography has been a male-dominated field, with few opportunities for women to make their mark. Although women have been involved in cartography for centuries, and played a vital role in producing maps, their contributions have often been overlooked. Historically, there have been many challenges for the female cartographer to face. Much mapping was done from ships which banned women; and universities were closed to women which cut off another avenue. However, many cartographic businesses were family-run and women often worked as engravers, colourists and more, it’s just that their contribution has mainly gone unrecognised.

It wasn't until the 19th and 20th centuries that women began to make significant contributions to map making. Over the years as more and more women have entered the field, their contributions have been vital to the development of modern cartography. Nowadays we know thousand names of women who had drawn, published, printed, engraved, sold, or traded maps prior to 1900 alone.

In celebrating International Women’s Month, it is intriguing to take a look, and equally important to mention and acknowledge some of these trailblazing women from our past that have helped to forge a rich and vibrant future for us now. Their work have made significant contributions to cartography throughout history.