1952 Map of Umiat

About this map

Naval Petroleum Reserve No 4 dominates this mid-century landscape of the Alaskan Arctic, reflecting the strategic energy interests that shaped the region during and after World War II. The settlement of Umiat serves as the focal point, situated at a bend in the Colville River and supported by the Umiat Airport. This era saw intense exploration and mapping efforts, as evidenced by the cooperation between the Geological Survey and the Department of the Navy. Beyond the outpost at Umiat Mtn, the map reveals a complex drainage network including the Itkillik River and Anaktuvuk River, which weave through the tundra. The presence of Sentinel Hill to the north and numerous small lakes like Umiat L highlights the distinct geomorphology of the North Slope, where water bodies and braided river channels define the traversable terrain.