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1949 Map of Portage

Name: 1949 Topographic Map of Portage
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1949
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1949

About this map

The Missouri River carves a deep path through the high plains north of Great Falls, defining the industrial and logistical character of this 1940s landscape. This survey, part of a Department of the Interior program for the development of the Missouri River Basin, documents the significant hydroelectric infrastructure of the era, including the Morony Dam, Ryan Dam, and Rainbow Dam. These power sources supported the growth of the region and the nearby Great Falls Army Air Force Base.

Transportation networks follow the terrain and the river's course, with the Great Northern and Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific railroads serving isolated grain stops and settlements. Genealogists will find interest in localized landmarks like the Roosevelt Sch, Salem Sch, and the State Deaf & Dumb School. The rural economy is further evidenced by family-named sites such as Golie Ranch and the elevators at Sheffels and Salem.