1953 Map of Marquette NW

About this map

Lake Superior dominates this nautical and coastal study, showing the shoreline as it appeared in the early 1950s. The map focuses on the waters and land northwest of the city, where the Michigammie State Forest meets the rocky coast. A notable navigational feature is Granite Island, located offshore and marked with a Light, serving as a critical guide for vessels navigating the approach to the local harbor. The coastline is defined by distinct geological features such as Granite Point and the sheltered Little Presque Isle. Inland, the hydrologic pattern is simple but significant, centered on Harlow Lake and its outlet, Harlow Creek. This survey captures a specific era of conservation and maritime safety before the expansion of modern shoreline development, documenting the exact mean lake elevation of 602 feet.