Loading map...

1951 Map of Deception Pass

Name: 1951 Topographic Map of Deception Pass
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1953
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1953

About this map

Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands anchor this 1950s study of the Puget Sound's intricate shoreline, revealing a landscape defined by military presence and rural settlement. Ault Field and the adjacent Naval Reservation dominate the northern reach of Whidbey Island, while the town of Oak Harbor serves as a primary hub. Further north, the crossing at Deception Pass State Park connects to Fidalgo Island, leading toward the industrial and maritime center of Anacortes.

The eastern portion of the map highlights the Swinomish Channel and the Swinomish Indian Reservation, bordering the historic town of La Conner. The infrastructure of the era is clearly visible, from the Northern Pacific railroad lines to local landmarks like the Rosario School and Rosario Grange. This survey captures the region just as the postwar military expansion was reshaping the north end of Whidbey Island, contrasting with the long-established communities like Dewey and Utsaladdy.