1959 Map of Thunder Bay

About this map

Thunder Bay serves as the focal point for this mid-century international border study, anchoring a region defined by the combined port industrial power of Port Arthur and Fort William. The map illustrates a landscape of transit and heavy industry where the Canadian Pacific and Canadian National railroads converge at the lakehead. Beyond the urban centers, the geography is punctuated by significant natural features like the Sibley Peninsula and the distinctive silhouette of The Sleeping Giant. This era shows the developed corridor of the Trans-Canada Highway running north of the bay, while more isolated settlements like Silver Islet and South Gillies speak to the region's mining and pioneer history. South across the international boundary, the wilderness of Isle Royale National Park sits in the open waters of Lake Superior, providing a sharp contrast to the dense rail and road networks of the mainland.