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1945 Map of Old Speck Mtn

Name: 1945 Topographic Map of Old Speck Mtn
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1950
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1950

About this map

North Newry PO and the small settlement of Ketchum anchor the southeastern corner of this mid-century survey, a region dominated by the high peaks and steep drainages of the Oxford hills. The Appalachian Trail winds through the center of the sheet, traversing high points like Old Speck Mtn, where a Fire Tower once stood as a vital lookout. The landscape is defined by its dramatic notches, including Mahoosuc Notch and Sawyer Notch, which serve as natural corridors through the ridges.

Drainage patterns are clearly articulated by the Ellis River and Bear River, while isolated water bodies like Speck Pond and C Pond occupy high basins. The survey captures the complex administrative geography of the era, illustrating the boundaries of unorganized territories such as Andover North Surplus and C Surplus. This map provides a detailed view of the trail networks and remote outposts before the expansion of modern forest management roads.