1949 Map of Healy A-1

About this map

The Clearwater Mountains dominate this 1949 survey of the Matanuska-Susitna region, where the terrain is defined by the braided path of the West Fork Susitna River and the main Susitna River. This era of Alaskan history is marked by early aviation and roadway expansion into the interior. The Denali Highway cuts across the southern portion of the map, providing a terrestrial lifeline between the peaks and the river valleys. Evidence of backcountry logistics is prevalent, from the Susitna Lodge and Seaplane Base on the western edge to several remote airstrips like the Clearwater Landing Strip and Pettyjohn Landing Strip. Local mining and prospecting history is anchored by family-named landmarks such as Gold Hill, Lucky Hill, and Rusty Hill, while the many water bodies like Swampbuggy Lake reflect the low-relief marshland surrounding the glacial rivers.