1958 Map of Sagavanirktok

About this map

Franklin Bluffs and the braided channels of the Sagavanirktok River dominate this mid-century survey of Alaska's North Slope. The landscape is a complex network of Arctic waterways including the Kuparuk River, Toolik River, and Ivishak River, revealing the region's geography before the full realization of the modern energy corridor. A critical phase of industrial development is captured by the presence of a Pipeline (Under Construction) and a series of remote outposts such as Sagwon and Happy Valley. Evidence of early exploration and logistical infrastructure is visible through markings for an Oil well, a Landing strip, and the Winter Trail. To the south, the terrain rises toward the White Hills and Kakukturaat Mtn, while the eastern portion of the sheet features the Shaviovik River and the high pass at Niviak Pass.