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1952 Map of Matagorda

Name: 1952 Topographic Map of Matagorda
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1976
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1976

About this map

Matagorda occupies a strategic position where the Colorado River meets the Texas coast, serving as a focal point for maritime and riverine activity. The town's grid is bounded by the Intracoastal Waterway, which cuts across the marshy landscape to connect Matagorda Bay with East Matagorda Bay. A Pontoon Bridge provides vital access across the canal, while an Old Railroad Grade to the northeast hints at former transport corridors that once served this coastal reach.

The surrounding terrain is a complex delta of islands and bayous, including Selkirk Island and Wild Cow Island. Beyond the immediate settlement, the Matagorda Peninsula acts as a thin barrier against the Gulf of Mexico, separated from the mainland by expansive wetlands. Local landmarks like the Matagorda Cem and various gaging stations reflect a community deeply integrated with its hydrological environment, while the presence of an Airstrip and the East Reservoir denote mid-century infrastructure developments.