1953 Map of Lake Tohopekaliga

About this map

Reedy Creek Swamp dominates the western half of this Florida landscape, a vast wetlands system defined by the slow-moving Reedy Creek. This early 1950s survey captures a transition between the wilder cypress environments and early citrus or pasture lands, particularly around the southern shores of Lake Tohopekaliga. Significant for local family researchers, the Pleasant Hill Cem is located near the center of the sheet, providing a precise spatial reference for this community landmark. The map details the hydrology of the region before major modern development, showing the connectivity between Brown Lake, Lake Russell, and the interior islands like Makinson Island and the elevated Johnson Island. The boundary between Osceola Co and Polk Co is also delineated, marking the political divide through the dense swamp and pine flatwoods.