1953 Map of North Bay

About this map

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge dominates the landscape in this 1953 survey, which documents the intricate marshlands and barrier island environment of Virginia’s coastline. Small clusters of coastal habitation appear at Sigma, Tabernacle, and Dawley Corners, while the maritime importance of the area is highlighted by the presence of the Little Island Coast Guard Station and several Observation Towers. The topography captures the fragile boundary between the Atlantic Ocean and the sheltered waters of North Bay, Shipps Bay, and Redhead Bay.