1953 Map of Presque Isle

About this map

Presque Isle Air Force Base and the Aroostook State Teachers College define the mid-century landscape of this northern Maine hub. The region is a mix of military presence, agricultural research at the State Experimental Farm, and local industry connected by the Bangor and Aroostook railroad. To the west and south, the terrain rises toward Squa Pan Mountain and Haystack Mtn, while the Aroostook River and Presque Isle Stream anchor the drainage system. Rural life is evidenced by scattered schoolhouses like Hillside Sch and crossroads such as Deadmans Cor. The presence of the Squa Pan Fire Tower overlooking Squa Pan Lake reflects the vital role of forest management and fire lookout systems in the 1950s Maine wilderness during a time of significant post-war development in Aroostook County.