1951 Map of Biwabik

About this map

The iron mining industrial landscape of the Mesabi Range is documented here in detail, centered on the settlement of Biwabik. The map illustrates a region undergoing intense resource extraction, where massive excavations like the Biwabik Mine and Embarrass Mine are surrounded by extensive Mine Dumps and Sediment Basins. The northern portion is dominated by the Superior National Forest and the Embarrass Mts, providing a stark contrast to the heavy industry of the south. Transportation is anchored by the Duluth Missabe and Iron Range railroad, which services the pits and connects the communities of Belgrade, Pineville, and Aurora. This mid-century survey captures the complex water management system required for mining, including the Diversion Channel and various tailings basins located near Wynne Lake and Embarrass Lake.