Rare Old Map of Shaw Island, Washington by USGS, 1973: Roche Harbor, San Juan Channel & Haro Strait
Restored in our workshop from the original 1977 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
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.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 from the original 1977 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. 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.
You can also contact us before you order, if you prefer!
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Published with a 1977 imprint from 1973 survey information, “Shaw Island” is a finely observed United States Geological Survey topographic map of...
Continue readingPublished with a 1977 imprint from 1973 survey information, “Shaw Island” is a finely observed United States Geological Survey topographic map of one of the quieter members of Washington’s San Juan Islands. At 1:24,000 scale, it captures the island not as an isolated point in Puget Sound’s northern archipelago, but as part of an intricate maritime landscape shaped by channels, straits, bays, and neighboring isles. Shaw Island appears amid Griffin Bay, San Juan Channel, and the wider waters leading toward Haro Strait, with Crane Island and Spieden Island helping to frame the surrounding geography. The map’s contours, color separation, and shaded relief give a remarkably clear sense of terrain, shoreline, and settlement patterns in the early 1970s.
The US Geological Survey brought to this map the disciplined precision that made its quadrangles indispensable to planners, travelers, scientists, and local communities. Founded in the late nineteenth century, the USGS became the authoritative cartographic voice of the American landscape, translating field surveys, aerial observations, and geodetic control into maps of exceptional clarity. Here, that technical tradition is evident in the careful delineation of land and water, the measured rhythm of contour lines, and the understated but effective use of shaded relief. Hills, coves, lowlands, and roadways are rendered with a factual elegance, allowing the viewer to read Shaw Island’s physical character at a glance while still discovering subtleties in its inlets, shorelines, and interior elevations.
Shaw Island itself occupies a distinctive place in the San Juan archipelago: smaller and quieter than its better-known neighbors, yet strategically positioned among busy waterways. The map shows its relationship to Griffin Bay, San Juan Channel, and the passages that have long connected island communities by boat, ferry, and local trade. Nearby Roche Harbor, North Beach, South Beach, and the shores of adjacent islands evoke a maritime world shaped by tides, fishing, recreation, and cross-border navigation. The proximity of Haro Strait is especially evocative, recalling the broader historical geography of the region, where American and British interests once met across narrow waters and where island identity has always been inseparable from navigation.
The topographic character of the map is especially appealing. Rather than presenting the island as a simple shoreline outline, the USGS treatment reveals subtle rises, depressions, ridgelines, and valleys through contouring and shaded relief. This gives Shaw Island a tangible form, emphasizing how even modest elevations influence roads, habitation, drainage, and views across the surrounding water. Color coding distinguishes land from the enclosing sea, while the clear hierarchy of lines and symbols identifies routes such as State Route 3, local roads, beaches, bays, and smaller coastal features. The result is both practical and atmospheric: a cartographic portrait of an island landscape where human movement adapts to terrain and shoreline.
As a document of the 1970s, “Shaw Island” preserves a moment in the evolving geography of the San Juans, before later decades of development, conservation policy, tourism, and changing land use further shaped the region. It offers insight into settlement density, transportation routes, coastal access, and the distribution of natural features during a period when the islands were increasingly valued for both their rural character and ecological richness. For admirers of Washington State, maritime landscapes, or classic American topographic mapping, this map is compelling for its balance of scientific precision and regional charm. It captures Shaw Island not merely as a destination, but as a carefully measured place within a dynamic archipelago of water, land, and history.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Shaw Island
- Griffin Bay
- Crane Island
- Spieden Island
- Roche Harbor
- San Juan Channel
- Haro Strait
- South Beach
- North Beach
- State Route 3
- Various small inlets, bays, and waterways
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
- Historical topographic map at 1:24,000 scale.
- Represents Shaw Island, Washington, and surrounding areas.
- Dated 1973, with a 1977 imprint.
- Features shaded relief to depict terrain elevation.
- Uses color coding to differentiate land from water.
- Includes contour lines showing elevation changes, hills, and valleys.
- Offers insight into 1970s land use, population density, and natural features.
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.
Published with a 1977 imprint from 1973 survey information, “Shaw Island” is a finely observed United States Geological Survey topographic map of one of the quieter members of Washington’s San Juan Islands. At 1:24,000 scale, it captures the island not as an isolated point in Puget Sound’s northern archipelago, but as part of an intricate maritime landscape shaped by channels, straits, bays, and neighboring isles. Shaw Island appears amid Griffin Bay, San Juan Channel, and the wider waters leading toward Haro Strait, with Crane Island and Spieden Island helping to frame the surrounding geography. The map’s contours, color separation, and shaded relief give a remarkably clear sense of terrain, shoreline, and settlement patterns in the early 1970s.
The US Geological Survey brought to this map the disciplined precision that made its quadrangles indispensable to planners, travelers, scientists, and local communities. Founded in the late nineteenth century, the USGS became the authoritative cartographic voice of the American landscape, translating field surveys, aerial observations, and geodetic control into maps of exceptional clarity. Here, that technical tradition is evident in the careful delineation of land and water, the measured rhythm of contour lines, and the understated but effective use of shaded relief. Hills, coves, lowlands, and roadways are rendered with a factual elegance, allowing the viewer to read Shaw Island’s physical character at a glance while still discovering subtleties in its inlets, shorelines, and interior elevations.
Shaw Island itself occupies a distinctive place in the San Juan archipelago: smaller and quieter than its better-known neighbors, yet strategically positioned among busy waterways. The map shows its relationship to Griffin Bay, San Juan Channel, and the passages that have long connected island communities by boat, ferry, and local trade. Nearby Roche Harbor, North Beach, South Beach, and the shores of adjacent islands evoke a maritime world shaped by tides, fishing, recreation, and cross-border navigation. The proximity of Haro Strait is especially evocative, recalling the broader historical geography of the region, where American and British interests once met across narrow waters and where island identity has always been inseparable from navigation.
The topographic character of the map is especially appealing. Rather than presenting the island as a simple shoreline outline, the USGS treatment reveals subtle rises, depressions, ridgelines, and valleys through contouring and shaded relief. This gives Shaw Island a tangible form, emphasizing how even modest elevations influence roads, habitation, drainage, and views across the surrounding water. Color coding distinguishes land from the enclosing sea, while the clear hierarchy of lines and symbols identifies routes such as State Route 3, local roads, beaches, bays, and smaller coastal features. The result is both practical and atmospheric: a cartographic portrait of an island landscape where human movement adapts to terrain and shoreline.
As a document of the 1970s, “Shaw Island” preserves a moment in the evolving geography of the San Juans, before later decades of development, conservation policy, tourism, and changing land use further shaped the region. It offers insight into settlement density, transportation routes, coastal access, and the distribution of natural features during a period when the islands were increasingly valued for both their rural character and ecological richness. For admirers of Washington State, maritime landscapes, or classic American topographic mapping, this map is compelling for its balance of scientific precision and regional charm. It captures Shaw Island not merely as a destination, but as a carefully measured place within a dynamic archipelago of water, land, and history.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Shaw Island
- Griffin Bay
- Crane Island
- Spieden Island
- Roche Harbor
- San Juan Channel
- Haro Strait
- South Beach
- North Beach
- State Route 3
- Various small inlets, bays, and waterways
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
- Historical topographic map at 1:24,000 scale.
- Represents Shaw Island, Washington, and surrounding areas.
- Dated 1973, with a 1977 imprint.
- Features shaded relief to depict terrain elevation.
- Uses color coding to differentiate land from water.
- Includes contour lines showing elevation changes, hills, and valleys.
- Offers insight into 1970s land use, population density, and natural features.
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 24 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 24 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.
We work with interior designers, hospitality businesses, property professionals, offices and corporate buyers on individual pieces and larger coordinated projects.
This map can be adapted for a particular wall, room or project, and our workshop can help coordinate the dimensions, material and framing before production.
- Exact, oversized and made-to-measure dimensions
- Custom framing, mounting and alternative materials
- Coordinated pieces for several rooms or locations
- Map personalisation, to mark important locations or add extra details
- Map and framing guidance from our workshop
- Local production for projects around the world
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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