1947 Map of Russian Mission

About this map

The Yukon River and Kuskokwim River dominate this mid-century survey of the Alaskan interior, revealing a landscape defined by seasonal movement and riverine settlements. This era captures the transition between traditional ways of life and increasing aviation connectivity, evidenced by Kako Air Field and the Nyac Airfield near the mining settlement of Nyac. Distinctive native settlements like Dogfish Village, Russian Mission, and Chuathbaluk are documented along the major waterways, alongside smaller sites such as Tundra George and Phillips Bros. The intricate network of sloughs and lakes, including the expansive Whitefish Lake and Arhymot Lake, illustrates the complex drainage of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. Between the river systems, the Portage Mountains and Paimiut Hills rise above the wetlands, serving as critical landmarks for travelers navigating via the Winter Trail.