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1949 Map of Portland

Name: 1949 Topographic Map of Portland
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1951
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1951

About this map

Casco Bay and the islands of southern Maine anchor the eastern edge of this regional survey, which spans from the Atlantic coast into the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. The landscape is defined by its deep glacial lakes, including Lake Winnipesaukee, Sebago Lake, and Massabesic Lake, which serve as natural hubs for the surrounding settlements. Along the coastline, a network of maritime defenses like Fort Williams, Fort Preble, and Fort Dearborn guard the approaches to Portland and Portsmouth, while prominent beacons such as the Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse and Whaleback Lighthouse mark the shore.

Transportation patterns reflect the post-war era, showing the Maine Turnpike stretching toward Saco and Biddeford. Extensive rail infrastructure, including the Boston & Maine RR and Maine Central RR, connects the coastal industrial centers to inland towns like Rochester and Concord. This combination of military installations, growing highway systems, and traditional rail corridors captures the region during a period of transition between its maritime industrial past and its expanding role as a residential and recreational destination.