1955 Map of Forked Island

About this map

White Lake and the coastal marshlands of south Louisiana define this mid-century landscape in Vermilion Parish. In the north, the town of Kaplan serves as a hub of activity along the Southern Pacific railroad line, while several private airstrips like Broussard Landing Field and Saltman No 1 Landing Field reflect the regional reliance on light aircraft for navigating the wetlands. The construction of the Intracoastal Waterway cuts a straight path across the terrain, contrasting with the ancient, winding routes of the Pirogue Trail through the marsh. Higher ground is marked by numerous named islands, including Dog Island and Greens Pine Island, which emerge from the expansive wetlands. This survey also records important local landmarks for genealogists, such as St Davids Ch, Hebert Cem, and the community at Forked Island.