1956 Map of Bellefontaine

About this map

Mon Louis Island dominates the western shore of Mobile Bay in this mid-century topographic record of coastal Alabama. The landscape is defined by the winding course of the East Fowl River and a network of small settlements including Bellefontaine, Mon Louis, and Faustinas. Evidence of earlier transport infrastructure is visible in the Old Railroad Grade running parallel to Cedar Point Road, tracing a path toward the southern tip of the island. Offshore, the Mobile Ship Channel marks the vital maritime artery for the region, complete with numerous navigational lights. Local genealogy and land use are anchored by landmarks like Boudans Cem near the northern boundary and family-named locations such as Bayleys Corner and Smithport. The map illustrates a coastal community deeply integrated with its bayous and bayfront, showing the transition from the wooded interior to the marshy points like Fowl River Pt.