Maps are a window into the past for both family and local historians. They provide an essential tool in the search for locations connected with the lives of our ancestors. For local historians, too, they are of crucial interest, in particular those undertaking research for villages and other histories. Maps help us to make sense of how and where our ancestors lived, identifying an indivudal's location and circumstances within his or her community. Charles Masters writes with authority, and his comprehensive book covers all the principal types of maps relevant to family and local histories. These include Estate and Manorial maps, Enclosure and Tithe maps, Town maps, and Valuation Office survey maps. The maps in the book are reproduced in color and integrated case studies are included in each chapter.