1905 Map of Portland

About this map

Portland and Vancouver anchor this turn-of-the-century riverfront landscape, captured before the extensive industrial drainage and urban expansion of the later twentieth century. The map reveals the intricate hydrology of the Columbia River and Willamette River confluence, including features like Guild Lake and Swan Island, which have since been radically altered. On the Washington side, the Vancouver Barracks stands as a prominent military installation, while the Yacolt (Gravel Pit Spur) and various Sawmills indicate the region's early reliance on timber and extractive industries. North of the city, the landscape of Fourth Plains is dotted with small settlements like Brush Prairie and Homan. Institutional presence is marked by Columbia University and an Asylum, while the Port of Portland Airport appears in its early location on Swan Island, highlighting the city's emerging role in aviation.