1956 Map of Soudan

About this map

Soudan Mine and the adjacent town of Soudan anchor this portion of the Vermilion Range, where iron mining shaped the landscape and economy well into the mid-20th century. The intricate shoreline of Lake Vermilion dominates the north, characterized by numerous islands like Timber Island and Hendrickson Island. The industrial footprint of the Duluth Missabe and Iron Range railroad is clearly visible, providing the essential transport link between the mines and southern ports. Much of the southern terrain is dedicated to the Bear Island State Forest, a dense wilderness of lakes and creeks including Putnam Lake and Skeleton Lake. Within Tower Soudan State Park, Jasper Peak stands as a prominent landmark with its Lookout Tower, marking the transition between the extractive industrial sites and the preserved natural spaces of northern Minnesota.