Rare Old Map of Portland, Maine by USGS, 1914: Casco Bay, Cape Elizabeth & Westbrook
Restaurata nel nostro laboratorio di Londra dalla mappa originale e stampata in qualità museale. Descrizione completa
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Abbina liberamente mappe standard idonee e stampe d’arte fine art. Non è richiesto alcun codice; l’offerta viene applicata automaticamente al checkout.
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Hai bisogno di consegne a indirizzi diversi? Contattaci prima di effettuare l’ordine.L’offerta del Collezionista
Scegli due opere idonee e ricevi il 20% di sconto su entrambe. Scegline tre e quella al prezzo più basso è in omaggio, con un risparmio massimo del 33%.
Abbina liberamente mappe standard idonee e stampe d’arte fine art. Non è richiesto alcun codice; l’offerta viene applicata automaticamente al checkout.
Sono incluse le configurazioni standard su ordinazione. Sono esclusi formati su misura, design personalizzati e lavori su commissione.
Hai bisogno di consegne a indirizzi diversi? Contattaci prima di effettuare l’ordine.
Una rara mappa antica restaurata, stampata in qualità museale. Descrizione completa
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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.
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Titled simply “Portland,” this 1914 U.S. Geological Survey map presents Maine’s principal seaport and its surrounding countryside at a revealing 1:48,000 topographical...
Continua a leggereTitled simply “Portland,” this 1914 U.S. Geological Survey map presents Maine’s principal seaport and its surrounding countryside at a revealing 1:48,000 topographical scale. Issued under the directorship of George Otis Smith, the sheet belongs to the disciplined, data-rich tradition of early twentieth-century federal cartography, when the USGS was refining a national visual language for landform, settlement, transport, and water. Its “Advance” designation gives it particular interest, suggesting a preliminary or early state intended to circulate useful geographic intelligence promptly. Portland appears here not merely as a city, but as the hub of a wider coastal landscape: coves, islands, tidal waters, rail lines, roads, and rural townships all arranged with the quiet authority of scientific survey.
The map’s design is classic USGS: restrained, legible, and elegant, with muted tones separating land, water, relief, and human infrastructure. Contour lines thread across the sheet, describing the rise and fall of hills, valleys, headlands, and inland ridges with a precision that rewards close study. Around Portland, the contours help reveal the subtle topographic setting of the city—its peninsular form, the lowlands near Back Cove, and the changing elevations toward Westbrook, Gorham, Scarborough, Deering, and Cape Elizabeth. Rather than dramatizing the landscape, the map measures it, translating coastal Maine into a rational system of line and symbol. The result is both practical and quietly beautiful, a portrait of place shaped by geology, water, and settlement.
Portland’s maritime geography is one of the sheet’s great pleasures. Casco Bay opens to the east with its constellation of islands and navigational landmarks, including Peaks Island, Mackworth Island, Fort Gorges, Ram Island, and Treat Island. These features speak to the city’s long relationship with the sea: defense, commerce, fishing, ferry routes, and summer resort culture all depended on the intricate geography of the bay. Fort Gorges, isolated in the harbor, recalls nineteenth-century coastal defense, while Peaks Island hints at the recreational and residential expansion of the era. Southward, Cape Elizabeth and Prouts Neck frame the transition from harbor to open Atlantic, where rocky promontories, beaches, and tidal inlets defined both daily life and coastal identity.
Inland and to the south, the map captures a region in motion. Roads and railways bind Portland to neighboring communities, with the Portland and Rochester Railroad among the transport corridors that shaped trade and travel. Westbrook appears as an important industrial neighbor, tied historically to paper, mills, and waterpower, while Gorham and Scarborough represent the agricultural and village landscapes that still surrounded the growing urban center in 1914. The Saco River and Saco Bay anchor the southern portion of the mapped area, linking freshwater drainage to a broader coastal system. Viewed today, the sheet preserves a moment before many later suburban expansions, highway projects, and shifts in land use transformed the Portland metropolitan landscape.
George Otis Smith’s association with the map adds an important institutional dimension. A Maine-born geologist who served as Director of the U.S. Geological Survey from 1907 to 1930, Smith presided over an era in which federal mapping became increasingly systematic, scientific, and indispensable to public administration. Under his leadership, USGS topographic sheets provided a common geographic framework for engineering, resource study, navigation, planning, and education. This “Portland” sheet reflects that ambition: it is local in subject, but national in method. Its careful depiction of contours, shorelines, settlements, railways, and waterways captures the geography of southern Maine as understood in 1914, offering a richly layered record of a coastal city poised between maritime tradition and modern expansion.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Portland
- Back Cove
- Saco Bay
- Ram Island
- Prouts Neck
- Peaks Island
- Westbrook
- Gorham
- Scarborough
- Deering
- Cape Elizabeth
- Casco Bay
- Fort Gorges
- Mackworth Island
- Treat Island
- Saco River
- Various roads and railways, including the Portland and Rochester Railroad
Historical context & cartographic details
- Published by the U.S. Geological Survey
- Mapmaker: George Otis Smith, Director of the U.S. Geological Survey in 1914
- Created in 1914
- Marked as an “Advance” edition
- Historical 1:48,000 topographical scale
- Features contour lines indicating elevation changes
- Uses a classic muted color palette typical of early 20th-century maps
- Utilizes Geological Survey mapping conventions
- Shows topographic variation including hills, valleys, and water bodies
- Reflects the geography of the Portland, Maine area as understood in 1914
- Documents the area before later urban development and changes in land use
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 18x24in (45x60cm) 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 simply “Portland,” this 1914 U.S. Geological Survey map presents Maine’s principal seaport and its surrounding countryside at a revealing 1:48,000 topographical scale. Issued under the directorship of George Otis Smith, the sheet belongs to the disciplined, data-rich tradition of early twentieth-century federal cartography, when the USGS was refining a national visual language for landform, settlement, transport, and water. Its “Advance” designation gives it particular interest, suggesting a preliminary or early state intended to circulate useful geographic intelligence promptly. Portland appears here not merely as a city, but as the hub of a wider coastal landscape: coves, islands, tidal waters, rail lines, roads, and rural townships all arranged with the quiet authority of scientific survey.
The map’s design is classic USGS: restrained, legible, and elegant, with muted tones separating land, water, relief, and human infrastructure. Contour lines thread across the sheet, describing the rise and fall of hills, valleys, headlands, and inland ridges with a precision that rewards close study. Around Portland, the contours help reveal the subtle topographic setting of the city—its peninsular form, the lowlands near Back Cove, and the changing elevations toward Westbrook, Gorham, Scarborough, Deering, and Cape Elizabeth. Rather than dramatizing the landscape, the map measures it, translating coastal Maine into a rational system of line and symbol. The result is both practical and quietly beautiful, a portrait of place shaped by geology, water, and settlement.
Portland’s maritime geography is one of the sheet’s great pleasures. Casco Bay opens to the east with its constellation of islands and navigational landmarks, including Peaks Island, Mackworth Island, Fort Gorges, Ram Island, and Treat Island. These features speak to the city’s long relationship with the sea: defense, commerce, fishing, ferry routes, and summer resort culture all depended on the intricate geography of the bay. Fort Gorges, isolated in the harbor, recalls nineteenth-century coastal defense, while Peaks Island hints at the recreational and residential expansion of the era. Southward, Cape Elizabeth and Prouts Neck frame the transition from harbor to open Atlantic, where rocky promontories, beaches, and tidal inlets defined both daily life and coastal identity.
Inland and to the south, the map captures a region in motion. Roads and railways bind Portland to neighboring communities, with the Portland and Rochester Railroad among the transport corridors that shaped trade and travel. Westbrook appears as an important industrial neighbor, tied historically to paper, mills, and waterpower, while Gorham and Scarborough represent the agricultural and village landscapes that still surrounded the growing urban center in 1914. The Saco River and Saco Bay anchor the southern portion of the mapped area, linking freshwater drainage to a broader coastal system. Viewed today, the sheet preserves a moment before many later suburban expansions, highway projects, and shifts in land use transformed the Portland metropolitan landscape.
George Otis Smith’s association with the map adds an important institutional dimension. A Maine-born geologist who served as Director of the U.S. Geological Survey from 1907 to 1930, Smith presided over an era in which federal mapping became increasingly systematic, scientific, and indispensable to public administration. Under his leadership, USGS topographic sheets provided a common geographic framework for engineering, resource study, navigation, planning, and education. This “Portland” sheet reflects that ambition: it is local in subject, but national in method. Its careful depiction of contours, shorelines, settlements, railways, and waterways captures the geography of southern Maine as understood in 1914, offering a richly layered record of a coastal city poised between maritime tradition and modern expansion.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Portland
- Back Cove
- Saco Bay
- Ram Island
- Prouts Neck
- Peaks Island
- Westbrook
- Gorham
- Scarborough
- Deering
- Cape Elizabeth
- Casco Bay
- Fort Gorges
- Mackworth Island
- Treat Island
- Saco River
- Various roads and railways, including the Portland and Rochester Railroad
Historical context & cartographic details
- Published by the U.S. Geological Survey
- Mapmaker: George Otis Smith, Director of the U.S. Geological Survey in 1914
- Created in 1914
- Marked as an “Advance” edition
- Historical 1:48,000 topographical scale
- Features contour lines indicating elevation changes
- Uses a classic muted color palette typical of early 20th-century maps
- Utilizes Geological Survey mapping conventions
- Shows topographic variation including hills, valleys, and water bodies
- Reflects the geography of the Portland, Maine area as understood in 1914
- Documents the area before later urban development and changes in land use
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 18x24in (45x60cm) 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.
Molte delle nostre mappe e stampe d’arte vengono scelte come regali premurosi per case, uffici, studi e luoghi significativi.
Scegli un’opzione incorniciata per il regalo più semplice, pronto da appendere, oppure scegli una stampa non incorniciata se il destinatario preferisce selezionare la propria cornice.
Realizziamo gli ordini localmente in 23 paesi in tutto il mondo, così i regali possono spesso essere prodotti vicino al destinatario. Questo li aiuta ad arrivare più rapidamente, a viaggiare in maggiore sicurezza e a evitare sorprese legate a dazi doganali o di importazione.
- Possiamo consegnare direttamente al destinatario
- I pezzi incorniciati arrivano pronti da appendere
- Le stampe non incorniciate sono accuratamente imballate in un robusto tubo protettivo
- Quasi ogni ordine viene realizzato localmente, per regali più rapidi e sicuri
- Il reso entro 90 giorni dà al destinatario il tempo di decidere
Se non sei sicuro di cosa scegliere, ti invitiamo a contattarci. Possiamo aiutarti a scegliere la mappa, il formato, la finitura o l’opzione di consegna più adatti.
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.
Restauriamo e produciamo mappe e stampe d’arte dal 1984, e garantiamo personalmente ogni pezzo.
Ogni ordine è coperto dalla nostra garanzia di 10 anni e dalla garanzia di consegna senza danni. Se il vostro pezzo arriva danneggiato, lo sostituiremo o lo rifaremo gratuitamente. Se qualsiasi altro aspetto non fosse conforme, contattate il nostro team di laboratorio e provvederemo tempestivamente a risolvere il problema.
Per tutti i dettagli, consultate la nostra politica su resi e rimborsi.
Oppure cerca qualcosa nel negozio.
