1951 Map of St Matthew

About this map

The Bering Sea surrounds the isolated landforms of this 1951 reconnaissance survey, which includes the entirety of St. Matthew Island and its smaller neighbors. Designated as part of the Bering Sea National Wildlife Refuge, the topography was compiled from aerial photography taken in 1948. The map details a landscape defined by dramatic coastal points and rocky outcrops, from Glory of Russia Cape at the northern tip to the southeastern terminus at Cape Upright. Separated from the main island by the Sarichef Strait, Hall Island and its distinct Elephant Rock stand to the northwest, while the jagged spire of Pinnacle Island rises out of the water to the south. This survey serves as an essential record of one of the most remote territories in the United States, documenting its uninhabited volcanic terrain and maritime landmarks like Sugarloaf and Bull Seal Point.