1952 Map of Matagorda SW

About this map

The Matagorda Peninsula forms a narrow barrier between the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the protected reaches of Matagorda Bay in this mid-century coastal survey. This maritime landscape is defined by the entrance of the Colorado River, where a Gaging Station and Light mark the vital navigation channel. The intricate marshland and tidal environment are detailed through features like Spring Bayou and Zipprian Bayou, which snake through the peninsula's inner shore. To the west, the bay opens up with named landforms such as Tiger Island and Greek Island, while the Dog Island Reef and Tiger Island Channel provide insight into the underwater topography and historical shipping lanes essential to the Texas Gulf Coast economy during the early 1950s.