1978 Map of Arcadia

About this map

The Peace River and the vast waters of Lake Istokpoga anchor this late 1970s landscape, illustrating the agricultural and conservation patterns of South Central Florida. The map reveals the critical hydraulic infrastructure of the region, including the Indian Prairie Canal and Harney Pond Canal that manage water flow toward the south. Near the intersection of several county lines, the Archbold Biological Station and Highlands Hammock State Park represent significant preserved natural areas amidst the growing citrus and cattle lands. Settlements like Arcadia and Sebring serve as primary hubs, connected by the Seaboard Coast Line railroad which parallels major road corridors. To the southeast, the Brighton Indian Reservation occupies a significant portion of the glades, while scattered communities such as Venus and Fort Ogden mark the rural character of DeSoto and Highlands counties during this era of transition.