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1949 Map of Harkers Island

Name: 1949 Topographic Map of Harkers Island
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1984
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1984

About this map

Harkers Island and the surrounding coastal marshlands are depicted here as they appeared mid-century, before significant modern development altered these barrier island communities. The map highlights the traditional maritime settlements of Straits, Gloucester, and Marshallberg, connected by the Harkers Island Road and Gloucester Road. The southern extent of the map is dominated by the narrow, sweeping reach of Shackleford Banks, separated from the mainland by the waters of Back Sound.

Coastal geography is intricately detailed, showing numerous hammocks and shoals such as Cedar Hammock and Great Marsh Island. The presence of the Cape Lookout National Seashore boundary and the Telephone Line running along the banks suggests a landscape transitioning toward conservation and utility expansion. Geologists and local historians can trace the shifting sands at Barden Inlet and the protected waters of Lookout Bight, which have long served as vital landmarks for Atlantic navigation.