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1971 Map of Dry Tortugas

Name: 1971 Topographic Map of Dry Tortugas
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1973
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1973

About this map

Garden Key serves as the focal point of this orthophotomap, dominated by the massive hexagonal structure of Fort Jefferson. As part of the Fort Jefferson National Monument, the island complex includes several Ruins and a designated Campground. The surrounding waters of the Gulf of Mexico are partitioned by deep-water passages such as the Northwest Channel and Southeast Channel, which provide access through the complex of keys and shoals.

To the west, Loggerhead Key is marked by a prominent Lighthouse and several Radio Towers. This 1970s orthophoto survey emphasizes the intricate underwater topography of the Dry Tortugas, revealing the extent of features like Brilliant Shoal and Middle Ground. The map provides a clear look at the relationship between the small exposed landmasses, including Hospital Key and Bush Key, and the sprawling shallow-water banks that have historically challenged mariners.