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1958 Map of Traverse City

Name: 1958 Topographic Map of Traverse City
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1958
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1958

About this map

Lake Michigan and the distinctive dual inlets of Grand Traverse Bay dominate this mid-century survey of Northern Lower Michigan. The region is characterized by its post-lumbering transition into a premier recreational and military landscape, anchored by the Michigan National Guard Military Reserve and sprawling tracts like the Au Sable State Forest and Huron National Forest. Hubs of commerce and transport such as Traverse City, Cadillac, and Grayling are shown at a point of significant growth, connected by a robust rail network including the Chesapeake and Ohio RR and Pennsylvania RR.

The map reveals the intricate water systems of the interior, from the depths of Higgins Lake and Houghton Lake to the course of the Manistee River and Au Sable River. Smaller settlements like Elk Rapids, Mancelona, and Roscommon appear alongside specialized landmarks such as Old Mission Point and Hodenpyl Dam Pond. This record captures the area just as the modern highway system was solidifying its role in the state's tourism economy.