1955 Map of Witch Lake

About this map

Witch Lake and its surrounding wetlands anchor this mid-century look at the Upper Peninsula where Marquette, Baraga, and Iron counties meet. The landscape is dominated by the sprawling Michigamme State Forest and a dense network of glacial lakes including Fence Lake, Nelson Lake, and Junco Lake. A significant geological and industrial footprint is visible through the Chicago and North Western and St Paul and Pacific corridors, highlighting the region's reliance on rail transport for timber and ore. The Michigamme River snakes through the northeast, while high points like the Lookout Tower provide vantage points over the heavy forest cover. The small settlement of Witbeck serves as a lone rail-side outpost in a terrain defined by complex water systems, from Bullhead Lake to the namesake Witch Lake.