1951 Map of Samalga Island

About this map

Nikolski stands as the primary settlement on this mid-century reconnaissance of the southwestern Aleutian Islands. The survey details the treacherous maritime geography between Umnak Island and the Islands of the Four Mountains, a region defined by active volcanic peaks like Mt Cleveland and Black Pk. Navigation through Samalga Pass is documented alongside numerous coastal hazards, including Pancake Rock and Eider Rock. The map illustrates the isolated nature of these outposts, where life centered around protected waters like Nikolski Bay and Traders Cove. Compiled from aerial photography and maritime charts, the work reflects the early Cold War era's effort to document Alaska's furthest reaches, tracing the transition from the Bering Sea to the open Pacific Ocean.