1956 Map of Matchwood

About this map

The West Branch Ontonagon River and South Branch Ontonagon River wind through the heart of the Ottawa National Forest in this mid-century survey of the Upper Peninsula. The landscape is defined by its industrial and transit history, featuring the Duluth South Shore and Atlantic railroad corridor connecting the settlements of Topaz, Matchwood, and Ewen. Historic extractive operations are evidenced by the Norwich Mine near the Norwich Lookout Tower, while the Victoria Reservoir in the northeast highlights the region's hydroelectric development. Numerous watercourses like the Little Cranberry River and Cascade Creek feed into the main river branches, alongside local landmarks such as Big Bear Airport and the prominent Oak Bluff. The presence of an Old Railroad Grade and a Flowing Well provide specific points of interest for those tracing the evolution of local infrastructure and land use.