Loading map...

1956 Map of Isles Of Shoals

Name: 1956 Topographic Map of Isles Of Shoals
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1957
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1957

About this map

Isles of Shoals straddle the maritime boundary between Maine and New Hampshire, appearing here as they were charted in the mid-1950s. This survey by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Army Map Service captures the distinct geography of this rocky archipelago, anchored by the settlement of Gosport on Star Island. The islands are depicted with detailed topography and soundings, showing the complex navigation around features like Duck Island to the north and the Lighthouse situated on White Island at the southern end of the chain.

The map illustrates the maritime character of the area, centered on the sheltered waters of Gosport Harbor and Haley Cove. Connections between the landmasses are evident, including the proximity of Appledore Island to Smuttynose Island and the smaller Malaga Island. The inclusion of the Tower and numerous ledges like Anderson Ledge and Cedar Island Ledge highlights the navigational hazards and landmarks critical to the local fishing and seafaring economy of the mid-20th century.