1958 Map of Charleston

About this map

Charleston and its surrounding harbor communities are depicted here at a point of significant post-war expansion. The historic peninsula, bounded by the Ashley River and Cooper River, remains the dense urban core, anchored by institutional landmarks such as The Citadel, the Medical College of S C, and the College of Charleston. To the north, the U S Naval Reservation and its extensive Drydocks signify the city's mid-century role as a vital maritime military hub. Across the water, the growing suburbs of Mount Pleasant and South Windermere are visible, connected by the Grace Memorial Bridge. This 1958 topography, with 1983 photoinspected updates, captures the city as urban development began to spread into former marshlands and timber tracts like Daniel Island and Thomas Island, while long-standing communities like Scanlonville and Maryville maintain their distinct footprints along the tidal reaches of Town Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway.