1949 Map of Tanacross

About this map

The Tanana River serves as the central artery for this late 1940s reconnaissance of the Alaska interior, documenting a landscape where aviation and highway infrastructure began to redefine traditional travel. The map highlights the sprawling Tetlin Indian Reservation and several indigenous settlements like Mansfield Village and Tanacross. Transportation transition is evident through the path of the Alaska Highway and the Eagle Trail, alongside several aviation landmarks such as the Tanacross Airfield and the Mineral Emergency Landing Field. These features illustrate the strategic importance of the region during the mid-20th century. Bordering the Alaska Canada line, the survey captures significant points of entry including the U S Customhouse. The terrain is characterized by the Tetlin Hills and the winding courses of the Ladue River and Robertson River, reflecting the complex river-and-road network of this subarctic corridor.