1949 Map of Fairbanks C-2

About this map

Ladd Air Force Base dominates this sub-arctic landscape south of the Salchaket Slough, reflecting the strategic military expansion into Alaska during the early Cold War era. The terrain is characterized by a complex network of wetlands and seasonal waterways, including Clear Creek and Willow Creek, which feed into the larger river systems of the Tanana Valley. A massive Bombing and Gunnery Range occupies a significant portion of the southern quadrant, indicating the intensive military training operations of the period. The only significant elevation in the area is the Bonnifield Clear Creek Butte, providing a rare topographical landmark in a region otherwise defined by meandering sloughs and low-lying brush. A solitary Trail is the only marked ground transportation route, highlighting the era's reliance on air and river access for interior movement.