1955 Map of Teshekpuk

About this map

Teshekpuk Lake dominates this Arctic coastal landscape, serving as a massive hydrological hub for a network of winding waterways including the Ikpikpuk River, Alaktak River, and Chip River. The region is defined by its status within the Naval Petroleum Reserve No 4, where early mid-century energy exploration is evidenced by the Simpson Test Well, Avak Test Well, and several noted Oil Seeps near the coast. Along the Beaufort Sea shoreline, isolated outposts like Alaktak and the Kokruagarok (Site) represent the sparse human footprint of the era. Transportation across the thaw-sensitive terrain relied on seasonal routes like the Winter Trail and several remote Landing Strips, including the Lonely Aerodrome at Pitt Point. This survey captures a moment of strategic resource assessment in a landscape shaped by permafrost and coastal inlets like Dease Inlet and Smith Bay.