Rare Old Map of Orange Beach, Alabama by USGS, 1943 – Gulf of Mexico & Perdido Bay
My maps are rare, museum-grade, restored old maps sourced from libraries, auction houses and private collections across the globe. Full description
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Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.
Restored in London • Printed and framed in Australia
My maps are rare, museum-grade, restored old maps sourced from libraries, auction houses and private collections across the globe. Full description
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Gift message & custom finish
If you want to add a gift message, or a finish (jigsaw, aluminium board, etc.) that is not available here, please request it in the "order note" when you check out.
Every order is custom made, so if you need the size adjusted slightly, or printed on an unusual material, just let us know. We've done thousands of custom orders over the years, so there's (almost) nothing we can't manage.
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Titled “Foley,” this 1943 United States Geological Survey topographical map captures a quietly fascinating stretch of coastal Alabama, extending from the inland...
Continue readingTitled “Foley,” this 1943 United States Geological Survey topographical map captures a quietly fascinating stretch of coastal Alabama, extending from the inland approaches around Foley toward Orange Beach, Perdido Bay, Little Lagoon, Bayou St. John, and the Gulf of Mexico. Produced from survey data gathered in the same year, it presents the region at a pivotal moment before the postwar transformation of the Gulf Coast into a major recreational and residential landscape. At a scale of 1:62,500, the map balances broad regional coverage with fine topographic detail, recording waterways, roads, trails, marshy margins, and settlement patterns with the measured precision characteristic of USGS cartography.
The United States Geological Survey brought to this map the disciplined visual language that made its quadrangles indispensable to engineers, planners, geologists, soldiers, and travelers. Founded in 1879, the USGS became the authoritative mapper of American terrain, transforming local geography into a standardized national record. In “Foley,” that tradition is evident in the clean grid overlay, careful contouring, and hierarchy of symbols distinguishing landforms, watercourses, transportation routes, and inhabited places. The design is practical rather than ornamental, yet its austerity has a distinctive elegance: a mid-twentieth-century map built for use, where every line is purposeful and the landscape is allowed to speak through measured detail.
Orange Beach appears here before the dense development now associated with Alabama’s Gulf shoreline. The map evokes a coastal world of bays, lagoons, creeks, and sandy margins, where settlement remained comparatively sparse and the natural rhythms of the coast were still visually dominant. Perdido Bay forms a major eastern presence, while Bayou St. John, Little Lagoon, Oleander Lagoon, and Cowan’s Lake articulate the watery complexity of the region. These features reveal a landscape shaped by tidal influence, low relief, and the meeting of freshwater drainage with the Gulf’s barrier and estuarine systems. For collectors, such coastal mapping is especially compelling because shorelines, wetlands, and communities often change dramatically over time.
The topographical character of the map is subtle but richly informative. Rather than dramatic mountains or steep valleys, it records the nuanced elevations of the Gulf Coastal Plain, where contour lines trace gentle rises, shallow depressions, and the transition from inland ground to low coastal margins. Roads and trails thread between waterways and settlements, suggesting patterns of movement before the modern dominance of resort highways and coastal infrastructure. Forested or undeveloped tracts likely occupied much of the surrounding countryside, reflecting a region tied to timber, fishing, small communities, and maritime access. In this sense, the map is not merely a navigational document, but a portrait of a working coastal landscape.
Created in 1943, “Foley” also belongs to the cartographic world of the Second World War, when accurate domestic mapping carried heightened importance for logistics, training, resource management, and coastal awareness. The Gulf Coast’s bays, inlets, roads, and settlements were of practical concern in an era of military mobilization, shipbuilding, and expanded federal attention to national geography. Today, the map offers a valuable historical benchmark for understanding environmental and urban change along Alabama’s coast. Comparing its depiction of Orange Beach, Perdido Bay, and surrounding inland areas with modern geography reveals the scale of later development, shoreline alteration, and ecological transformation in one of the Gulf South’s most dynamic coastal regions.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Orange Beach, Alabama
- Gulf of Mexico
- Perdido Bay
- Bayou St. John
- Cowan's Lake
- Little Lagoon
- Oleander Lagoon
- Various rivers and creeks
- Roads and trails
- Parks and forests
Historical context & cartographic details
- Historical 1:62,500 topographical map titled Foley
- Created in 1943 using survey data from that year
- Published by the United States Geological Survey (USGS)
- Shows Orange Beach, Alabama and surrounding coastal and inland areas
- Features a detailed grid overlay typical of USGS topographic maps
- Uses contour lines to depict elevation changes and the region’s topographical character
- Reflects 1940s cartographic design, emphasizing clarity and practical navigation
- Displays varied Gulf Coast terrain, including coastal areas, waterways, and possibly forested regions
- Provides insight into the region’s geography during the 1940s
- Useful for comparing historical geography with modern urban development and environmental change
Looking for a particular place? Review the detailed images to confirm that the town, landmark or feature you have in mind appears on the map. If you are unsure, ask our workshop to check before you order.
Detailed maps are especially rewarding at larger sizes, where names, boundaries and decorative features have more room to be appreciated. Use the close-up preview and size guide to choose the right scale for your wall.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.
Where personalisation is available, you can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. See personalised map examples.
Every piece is printed to museum-grade archival standards using fade-resistant pigment inks on acid-free matte paper. Choose an unframed map print, framed map or canvas using the finish options above. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
With its rich detail and strong sense of place, this map makes a considered gift for a new home, anniversary, retirement or anyone with a personal connection to the area shown. Still deciding? Explore our collection of rare old and vintage maps to discover another place, period or style.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Titled “Foley,” this 1943 United States Geological Survey topographical map captures a quietly fascinating stretch of coastal Alabama, extending from the inland approaches around Foley toward Orange Beach, Perdido Bay, Little Lagoon, Bayou St. John, and the Gulf of Mexico. Produced from survey data gathered in the same year, it presents the region at a pivotal moment before the postwar transformation of the Gulf Coast into a major recreational and residential landscape. At a scale of 1:62,500, the map balances broad regional coverage with fine topographic detail, recording waterways, roads, trails, marshy margins, and settlement patterns with the measured precision characteristic of USGS cartography.
The United States Geological Survey brought to this map the disciplined visual language that made its quadrangles indispensable to engineers, planners, geologists, soldiers, and travelers. Founded in 1879, the USGS became the authoritative mapper of American terrain, transforming local geography into a standardized national record. In “Foley,” that tradition is evident in the clean grid overlay, careful contouring, and hierarchy of symbols distinguishing landforms, watercourses, transportation routes, and inhabited places. The design is practical rather than ornamental, yet its austerity has a distinctive elegance: a mid-twentieth-century map built for use, where every line is purposeful and the landscape is allowed to speak through measured detail.
Orange Beach appears here before the dense development now associated with Alabama’s Gulf shoreline. The map evokes a coastal world of bays, lagoons, creeks, and sandy margins, where settlement remained comparatively sparse and the natural rhythms of the coast were still visually dominant. Perdido Bay forms a major eastern presence, while Bayou St. John, Little Lagoon, Oleander Lagoon, and Cowan’s Lake articulate the watery complexity of the region. These features reveal a landscape shaped by tidal influence, low relief, and the meeting of freshwater drainage with the Gulf’s barrier and estuarine systems. For collectors, such coastal mapping is especially compelling because shorelines, wetlands, and communities often change dramatically over time.
The topographical character of the map is subtle but richly informative. Rather than dramatic mountains or steep valleys, it records the nuanced elevations of the Gulf Coastal Plain, where contour lines trace gentle rises, shallow depressions, and the transition from inland ground to low coastal margins. Roads and trails thread between waterways and settlements, suggesting patterns of movement before the modern dominance of resort highways and coastal infrastructure. Forested or undeveloped tracts likely occupied much of the surrounding countryside, reflecting a region tied to timber, fishing, small communities, and maritime access. In this sense, the map is not merely a navigational document, but a portrait of a working coastal landscape.
Created in 1943, “Foley” also belongs to the cartographic world of the Second World War, when accurate domestic mapping carried heightened importance for logistics, training, resource management, and coastal awareness. The Gulf Coast’s bays, inlets, roads, and settlements were of practical concern in an era of military mobilization, shipbuilding, and expanded federal attention to national geography. Today, the map offers a valuable historical benchmark for understanding environmental and urban change along Alabama’s coast. Comparing its depiction of Orange Beach, Perdido Bay, and surrounding inland areas with modern geography reveals the scale of later development, shoreline alteration, and ecological transformation in one of the Gulf South’s most dynamic coastal regions.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Orange Beach, Alabama
- Gulf of Mexico
- Perdido Bay
- Bayou St. John
- Cowan's Lake
- Little Lagoon
- Oleander Lagoon
- Various rivers and creeks
- Roads and trails
- Parks and forests
Historical context & cartographic details
- Historical 1:62,500 topographical map titled Foley
- Created in 1943 using survey data from that year
- Published by the United States Geological Survey (USGS)
- Shows Orange Beach, Alabama and surrounding coastal and inland areas
- Features a detailed grid overlay typical of USGS topographic maps
- Uses contour lines to depict elevation changes and the region’s topographical character
- Reflects 1940s cartographic design, emphasizing clarity and practical navigation
- Displays varied Gulf Coast terrain, including coastal areas, waterways, and possibly forested regions
- Provides insight into the region’s geography during the 1940s
- Useful for comparing historical geography with modern urban development and environmental change
Looking for a particular place? Review the detailed images to confirm that the town, landmark or feature you have in mind appears on the map. If you are unsure, ask our workshop to check before you order.
Detailed maps are especially rewarding at larger sizes, where names, boundaries and decorative features have more room to be appreciated. Use the close-up preview and size guide to choose the right scale for your wall.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.
Where personalisation is available, you can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. See personalised map examples.
Every piece is printed to museum-grade archival standards using fade-resistant pigment inks on acid-free matte paper. Choose an unframed map print, framed map or canvas using the finish options above. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
With its rich detail and strong sense of place, this map makes a considered gift for a new home, anniversary, retirement or anyone with a personal connection to the area shown. Still deciding? Explore our collection of rare old and vintage maps to discover another place, period or style.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Many of our maps and art prints are chosen as thoughtful gifts for homes, offices, studies and meaningful places.
Choose a framed option for the easiest ready-to-hang gift, or choose an unframed print if the recipient may prefer to select their own frame.
We make orders locally in 23 countries around the world, so gifts can often be produced close to the recipient. This helps them arrive faster, travel more safely, and avoid customs or import duty surprises.
- We can deliver directly to the recipient
- Framed pieces arrive ready to hang
- Unframed prints are carefully packed in a strong protective tube
- Almost every order is made locally, for faster, safer gifting
- 90-day returns give the recipient time to decide
If you are not sure what to choose, please contact us. We can help you pick the right map, size, finish or delivery option.
Most orders are made locally and delivered in around 2–3 working days, depending on the product, size and destination.
We print and frame maps and artwork in 23 countries around the world, so your order is usually made close to you or your recipient. That means faster delivery, less time in transit, and no customs or import duty surprises.
Personalised and customised pieces usually take an extra 1–2 working days, because we prepare your design and send it to you for approval before printing.
Very large framed orders can take a little longer, as they need extra care in production and delivery.
Every order is carefully packaged: unframed prints are sent in a strong protective tube, while framed pieces are securely packed with protective materials around the frame.
If you need your order by a particular date, please contact us before ordering. We’ll check the best production route and delivery option for your location.
Express delivery is available at checkout for most countries. Next-day delivery is available in the UK, US, Singapore and the UAE.
Your order is covered by our 90-day returns policy and 10-year guarantee.
Our standard frame is a gallery-style black ash hardwood frame, with a simple, modern look. It is approximately 20mm (0.8in) wide. You can also view some lovely customer photos of framed maps and art.
We use super-clear acrylic glazing, also known as Perspex or Acrylite, instead of traditional glass. It is lighter, safer, and has lower reflectivity, giving the artwork a clearer, cleaner appearance.
Six standard frame colours are available at no extra cost: black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white, and antique gold. Custom framing and mounting/matting is also available for customers looking for something more specific.
Most maps, art prints, and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced wooden box frame, and then float the piece within a wooden outer frame. The finished result is beautifully presented, with no glazing between you and the artwork.
All frames are supplied ready to hang, with either string or brackets fitted to the back. Very large frames will include heavy-duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
We can also supply old maps and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag, and other materials.
If you would prefer to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read our size guide before ordering.
Every Unique Maps piece begins with an authentic cartographic source or an original design from our London studio.
For our historic maps, we source rare originals from libraries, archives, auction houses and private collections around the world. We carefully restore each map for print—repairing age-related damage, balancing colour and improving clarity while preserving its original detail, texture and character.
Once restored, the map is prepared for your chosen size and finish. Your piece is then printed and, where selected, framed close to its delivery destination.
Our map prints use acid-free 200gsm archival matte paper and fade-resistant pigment inks, creating a rich, non-glossy finish designed to last. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
Canvas, cotton-rag and other specialist presentations are also available. Learn more about our materials and finishes.
Personalising your map
You can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. For personalised designs, we send a proof before printing and you can request changes before approval.
For more complex bespoke commissions, contact our design team.
Original or Aged
Choose Original for true-to-source colour, or Aged for a warmer, richer antique character created with our specialist ageing process. See examples of our Aged maps.
We’ve been restoring and producing maps and art prints since 1984, and we stand behind every piece.
Every order is covered by our 10-year guarantee and damage-free delivery guarantee. If your piece arrives damaged, we’ll replace or remake it free of charge. If anything else isn’t right, contact our workshop team and we’ll put it right promptly.
See our returns and refund policy for full details.
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