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1959 Map of Fort Pierce

Name: 1959 Topographic Map of Fort Pierce
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1959
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1959

About this map

Lake Okeechobee and the vast central Florida interior dominate this mid-century landscape, revealing a region defined by its hydrography and agricultural development. The map details the complex drainage systems of the Kissimmee River and St Johns River Marsh, while showing the established groves and settlements of the citrus belt. Massive inland water bodies like Lake Istokpoga and Lake Kissimmee are surrounded by extensive marshlands, contrasting with the coastal development along the Indian River and the North Atlantic Ocean.

Transport networks are anchored by the Atlantic Coast Line and Seaboard Air Line railroads, which connect established towns such as Arcadia, Sebring, and Lake Wales. Significant land use is dedicated to federal and state interests, including the Avon Park Bombing and Gunnery Range and the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. From the barrier islands like Hutchinson Island to the interior citrus ridges, this survey illustrates a transition between the wild Everglades fringe and a growing rail-and-river economy.