1957 Map of Gabbro Lake

About this map

Superior National Forest dominates this mid-century wilderness survey, revealing an intricate network of waterways before the modern era of heavy recreation. The landscape is defined by its dramatic hydrology, from the Upper Pipestone Falls near Newton Lake to the scattered control structures like Dam No 1 and Dam No 2. These dams and the Gaging Station located along the river systems reflect early water management and monitoring efforts within the forest boundaries. The map captures the area as a working wilderness, where isolated Gravel Pits provided materials for forest roads, and established locations like the South Kawishiwi River Camp served as early hubs for forestry or exploration. Dozens of distinct water bodies, including Moose Lake, Ella Hall Lake, and Camp Twenty Lake, are mapped with precision, highlighting the glacial character of the terrain during the late 1950s.