1955 Map of Isabella

About this map

The Duluth Missabe and Iron Range railroad and several railroad grades define the mid-century industrial landscape of this Lake County wilderness. Centered on the community of Isabella, the map records a network of landings and stations supporting the region's logging and mining activities, including Kelly Landing and Isabella (Station). A notable marker of shifting local demographics is the Isabella Sch (Abandoned), while the Long Lake Sch remains standing further north. The vast timberlands are managed through a patchwork of the Superior National Forest, Finland State Forest, and Minnesota State Forest. Fire suppression and forest management infrastructure is evidenced by the Stony Lookout Tower and the Ranger Station near the Isabella settlement, which sits amidst a dense concentration of lakes like Isabella Lake and Fishfry Lake.