Rare Old Map of Seattle, Washington by USGS, 1949: Elliott Bay, Lake Washington & Mercer Island
Restored in our London workshop from the original 1969 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 in London • Printed and framed in Canada
Restored from the original 1969 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
Map size guide
In general, maps look better at larger sizes, particularly maps with a lot of details. Because every order is handmade, custom sizing is available: select 'custom size' on the product page and fill in the dimensions, or put it in your order notes on the checkout screen.
The map covers the entire piece of paper, for every available size. There are no white edges. The map will look exactly like in the product photos. If you want some 'extra space' around the map, please contact me or put it in your order notes.
To help you pick the right size, here are some of my 'standard' map sizes next to each other, in portrait and landscape orientation.
| 16x12in (40x30cm) | 20x16in (50x40cm) | 24x18in (60x45cm) |
36x24in (90x60cm) |
| 12x16in (30x40cm) | 16x20in (40x50cm) | 18x24in (45x60cm) |
24x36in (60x90cm) |
Buying framed maps
Our standard frames add about 2cm (0.75in) to each side of the map. So, a 45x60cm map would be 49x64cm when framed, or a 24x36in map would be 25.5x37.5in.
Larger maps over 125cm/50in usually have wider frames, and custom framing is available if you're looking for a specific frame width or style
Buying unframed maps
If you buy an unframed old map from me, and plan to frame it yourself, please read this page for important information about framing your map.
General size guidelines
Generally, the size you see on the shop is exactly accurate.
So, for example, if you buy an 18x24 inch map, you should buy a frame that 'fits artwork' that is 18x24 inches. If you order a 60x90cm map, you should buy a frame that 'fits artwork' that is 60x90cm.
If you see a map that is an unusual size, such as 24x11 inches (or 61x29cm), I strongly recommend you wait for the map to arrive before making or ordering a frame online. These maps can vary in size by a few millimetres, and it's very frustrating if they don't fit into your frame!
If you need a map that is an exact size in centimetres or inches, please contact me. For larger maps over 50in/125cm I can customise the size free of charge.
Large maps
If you are framing the map yourself, please order the map and wait for it to arrive. Then measure the map and order a frame to fit.
If you are taking your map to a local framer, they will measure the map for you and then make the frame to fit.
For larger maps, please make sure you stick them in properly or they will become wavy and bubbly after a short time. Alternatively, we would be happy to frame it for you!
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!
Own a piece of history
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Titled “Seattle South,” this US Geological Survey topographical map presents the city and its southern environs through survey data gathered in 1949...
Continue readingTitled “Seattle South,” this US Geological Survey topographical map presents the city and its southern environs through survey data gathered in 1949 and issued with a 1969 imprint, giving it a fascinating double perspective: a postwar landscape seen through the lens of late-1960s cartographic publication. Seattle appears here as a city defined by water, hills, industry, and expanding neighborhoods, with Elliott Bay, Lake Washington, the Duwamish River, and the Ship Canal structuring the composition. The map’s distinctive USGS palette—pink for dense urban fabric, blue for water, and finely drawn contour lines for relief—transforms technical geographic information into an elegant portrait of place. It captures Seattle at a moment when its modern metropolitan form was rapidly emerging.
The US Geological Survey, founded in 1879, became one of the most respected mapping institutions in the world by combining field science, standardized surveying, and precise graphic design. “Seattle South” belongs to the agency’s celebrated topographic tradition, in which every contour, shoreline, road, rail line, and built-up area is rendered with disciplined clarity. Rather than emphasizing political boundaries or picturesque embellishment, the map reveals the city as terrain: a layered interplay of elevation, drainage, transportation, and settlement. Its contour lines describe the rises of Beacon Hill, Capitol Hill, West Seattle, and the ridges around Rainier Valley, while the water bodies provide strong visual anchors. The result is both a practical survey document and a remarkably rich historical landscape.
Seattle’s dramatic relationship with water dominates the map. Elliott Bay opens westward into Puget Sound, framing the historic waterfront and the approaches to Pioneer Square, while Lake Washington forms the city’s eastern edge and surrounds Mercer Island with broad expanses of blue. The Ship Canal links Lake Union and Lake Washington to Puget Sound, illustrating the engineered waterway that helped shape Seattle’s maritime and industrial growth. South Lake Union, now synonymous with modern development, appears in an earlier urban context, still closely tied to transportation corridors and working districts. Alki Beach, Fauntleroy, Lincoln Park, and Seward Park mark the city’s quieter shoreline landscapes, contrasting with the dense port and riverine industry along the Duwamish.
The map is especially compelling for its depiction of mid-century Seattle’s neighborhoods and transport network. West Seattle, the West Seattle Junction, Beacon Hill, Rainier Valley, Ballard, Interbay, Green Lake, Northgate, Shoreline, and Lake Forest Park all appear within a web of roads, railroads, waterways, and urban blocks. The University of Washington anchors the northeast portion of the city, while Boeing Field and the industrial corridor of the Duwamish River point to Seattle’s aviation, manufacturing, and logistical importance. Highways, including Interstate 5, reveal the era’s transformation of metropolitan movement, cutting through the older grain of streets and neighborhoods. Seen today, these routes make the map a record of the city just as automobile infrastructure was redefining its geography.
As a historical document, “Seattle South” offers a vivid benchmark for understanding how Seattle has changed since the mid-twentieth century. Areas now associated with dense redevelopment, technology campuses, and intensified urban living appear in a more transitional form, while parks, hills, lakes, and shorelines provide enduring points of continuity. The topographic detail invites close study of how settlement adapted to steep slopes, valleys, waterways, and reclaimed industrial land. Mercer Island, Lake Washington, Alki, Seward Park, and the Duwamish corridor all carry stories of growth, connection, and environmental transformation. Elegant in its restraint and authoritative in its detail, the map captures Seattle not as a skyline, but as a living terrain shaped by geology, water, engineering, and ambition.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Seattle
- Mercer Island
- Elliott Bay
- Lake Washington
- Duwamish River
- Alki Beach
- West Seattle
- Beacon Hill
- Capitol Hill
- Ballard
- University of Washington
- Pioneer Square
- Rainier Valley
- South Lake Union
- Boeing Field
- Seward Park
- Lincoln Park
- Shoreline
- Northgate
- Lake Forest Park
- Interbay
- Green Lake
- Fauntleroy
- West Seattle Junction
- Ship Canal
- Various railroads and highways, including Interstate 5
Historical context & cartographic details
- Historical topographical map produced by the US Geological Survey.
- Survey data dates from 1949, with publication in 1969.
- Published by the USGS, an agency known for scientific research and detailed mapping.
- Features distinctive USGS color coding, including pink tones for urban areas and blue for water bodies.
- Includes contour lines and elevation markings to show hills and changes in terrain.
- Provides insight into mid-20th-century urban development and land use.
- Useful for comparing historical geography with the modern urban layout.
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 “Seattle South,” this US Geological Survey topographical map presents the city and its southern environs through survey data gathered in 1949 and issued with a 1969 imprint, giving it a fascinating double perspective: a postwar landscape seen through the lens of late-1960s cartographic publication. Seattle appears here as a city defined by water, hills, industry, and expanding neighborhoods, with Elliott Bay, Lake Washington, the Duwamish River, and the Ship Canal structuring the composition. The map’s distinctive USGS palette—pink for dense urban fabric, blue for water, and finely drawn contour lines for relief—transforms technical geographic information into an elegant portrait of place. It captures Seattle at a moment when its modern metropolitan form was rapidly emerging.
The US Geological Survey, founded in 1879, became one of the most respected mapping institutions in the world by combining field science, standardized surveying, and precise graphic design. “Seattle South” belongs to the agency’s celebrated topographic tradition, in which every contour, shoreline, road, rail line, and built-up area is rendered with disciplined clarity. Rather than emphasizing political boundaries or picturesque embellishment, the map reveals the city as terrain: a layered interplay of elevation, drainage, transportation, and settlement. Its contour lines describe the rises of Beacon Hill, Capitol Hill, West Seattle, and the ridges around Rainier Valley, while the water bodies provide strong visual anchors. The result is both a practical survey document and a remarkably rich historical landscape.
Seattle’s dramatic relationship with water dominates the map. Elliott Bay opens westward into Puget Sound, framing the historic waterfront and the approaches to Pioneer Square, while Lake Washington forms the city’s eastern edge and surrounds Mercer Island with broad expanses of blue. The Ship Canal links Lake Union and Lake Washington to Puget Sound, illustrating the engineered waterway that helped shape Seattle’s maritime and industrial growth. South Lake Union, now synonymous with modern development, appears in an earlier urban context, still closely tied to transportation corridors and working districts. Alki Beach, Fauntleroy, Lincoln Park, and Seward Park mark the city’s quieter shoreline landscapes, contrasting with the dense port and riverine industry along the Duwamish.
The map is especially compelling for its depiction of mid-century Seattle’s neighborhoods and transport network. West Seattle, the West Seattle Junction, Beacon Hill, Rainier Valley, Ballard, Interbay, Green Lake, Northgate, Shoreline, and Lake Forest Park all appear within a web of roads, railroads, waterways, and urban blocks. The University of Washington anchors the northeast portion of the city, while Boeing Field and the industrial corridor of the Duwamish River point to Seattle’s aviation, manufacturing, and logistical importance. Highways, including Interstate 5, reveal the era’s transformation of metropolitan movement, cutting through the older grain of streets and neighborhoods. Seen today, these routes make the map a record of the city just as automobile infrastructure was redefining its geography.
As a historical document, “Seattle South” offers a vivid benchmark for understanding how Seattle has changed since the mid-twentieth century. Areas now associated with dense redevelopment, technology campuses, and intensified urban living appear in a more transitional form, while parks, hills, lakes, and shorelines provide enduring points of continuity. The topographic detail invites close study of how settlement adapted to steep slopes, valleys, waterways, and reclaimed industrial land. Mercer Island, Lake Washington, Alki, Seward Park, and the Duwamish corridor all carry stories of growth, connection, and environmental transformation. Elegant in its restraint and authoritative in its detail, the map captures Seattle not as a skyline, but as a living terrain shaped by geology, water, engineering, and ambition.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Seattle
- Mercer Island
- Elliott Bay
- Lake Washington
- Duwamish River
- Alki Beach
- West Seattle
- Beacon Hill
- Capitol Hill
- Ballard
- University of Washington
- Pioneer Square
- Rainier Valley
- South Lake Union
- Boeing Field
- Seward Park
- Lincoln Park
- Shoreline
- Northgate
- Lake Forest Park
- Interbay
- Green Lake
- Fauntleroy
- West Seattle Junction
- Ship Canal
- Various railroads and highways, including Interstate 5
Historical context & cartographic details
- Historical topographical map produced by the US Geological Survey.
- Survey data dates from 1949, with publication in 1969.
- Published by the USGS, an agency known for scientific research and detailed mapping.
- Features distinctive USGS color coding, including pink tones for urban areas and blue for water bodies.
- Includes contour lines and elevation markings to show hills and changes in terrain.
- Provides insight into mid-20th-century urban development and land use.
- Useful for comparing historical geography with the modern urban layout.
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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