1953 Map of Cathlamet

About this map

The Columbia River forms a wide, intricate network of sloughs and low-lying landforms along the Washington-Oregon border, defined by the Cathlamet Channel and the many Hunting Islands. This mid-century landscape is dominated by the waterway's industrial and transport importance, with the S P & S Ry and Highway 30 serving river towns like Bradwood and Westport. The map illustrates the sophisticated levee systems protecting Welch Island and Tenasillahe Island, while the town of Cathlamet sits prominently on the northern bank across from Little Bernie Island. Further inland, the terrain rises sharply toward the peaks of Nicolai Mtn and Clatskanie Mtn, marking the transition from the river's tidal influence to the heavily forested ridges. Small settlements and points like Clifton, Marshland, and Mist are situated along the winding creeks and rail lines that supported the local timber and fishing economies of the era.