1950 Map of False Pass

About this map

Unimak Island and the western tip of the Alaska Peninsula dominate this 1950 reconnaissance survey, centered on the vital maritime corridor of Isanotski Strait. The landscape is defined by the massive volcanic silhouettes of Shishaldin Volcano and Isanotski Peaks, looming over the small settlements at False Pass and Morzhovoi. These communities represent the primary human presence in a maritime environment where the economy was dictated by the tides of Bechevin Bay and the sheltering waters of Traders Cove. To the south, the Sanak Islands rise from the Pacific Ocean, showing the intricate coastline of Sanak Harbor and Pavlof Harbor. This map captures the region at a time when these remote outposts served as critical navigation points for the fishing fleets and transport vessels moving between the Bering Sea and the open Pacific.