1955 Map of Port Isabel NW

About this map

Padre Island stretches between the shallow Laguna Madre and the open Gulf of Mexico, defined by its dynamic landscape of Shifting Sand Dunes and deposits of Sand and Mud. This 1955 survey, with 1970 revisions, captures the island's coastal geography before significant modern development, highlighting local landmarks like Andy Bowie Park and a designated Beach area. The hydrography reveals the essential Intracoastal Waterway cutting through the western waters, marked with Piles and a Light to navigate the Project Depth 12 Feet. Notable maritime features include a Wreck off the eastern shore and a landmark labeled Shark near the southern boundary. The presence of a Levee and various Spoil Areas underscores the ongoing human intervention required to maintain these vital shipping channels against the natural movement of the barrier island sands.