1948 Map of James Island

About this map

Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie stand as sentinel landmarks guarding the harbor entrance in this post-war coastal survey. The map illustrates the strategic geography of Charleston, where the Ashley River and Cooper River converge, highlighting the extensive Naval Reservation and maritime infrastructure of the era. The intricate network of sea islands, including James Island, Sullivans Island, and Morris Island, is shown before the major modern development of the late 20th century. To the north, the protected landscape of the Francis Marion National Forest meets the coastal marshes of Bull Bay. Researchers can trace the Seaboard rail lines and the early footprint of North Charleston, as well as small landings like Redbank Landing and the aviation interest at Carolina Skyways.