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1950 Map of Bethel

Name: 1950 Topographic Map of Bethel
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1950
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1950

About this map

The Kuskokwim River serves as the primary artery for life and commerce in this mid-century portrait of southwestern Alaska, connecting riverside settlements like Bethel, Akiachak, and Akiak. While Bethel operates as a regional hub with its Landing Field, a network of trails and waterways extends eastward toward the formidable Kilbuck Mountains. The map documents the region's resource-based economy, specifically noting the Marvel Creek Field and Granite Creek Field, which suggest active mining or exploration near Marvel Dome.

The landscape transitions from the watery delta environment near Napaiskak and Lomavik to the high-elevation peaks of the east, including Mt Plummer and Fisher Dome. To the southeast, large bodies of water like Chikuminuk Lake and Lake Chauekuktuli mark the edge of the mountain range near the Fourth and Third Judicial Division boundary. Numerous smaller tributaries, including the Kwithluk River and Eek River, carve through the terrain, illustrating the intricate drainage patterns critical for inland navigation.