Map of Phelps, Wisconsin by USGS, 1981: Nicolet National Forest, Watersmeet Lake & Vance Lake
Restored in our workshop from the original 1982 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. 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 the UK
Restored from the original 1982 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 in 1982 from 1981 survey data, the US Geological Survey’s “Phelps” presents a finely observed portrait of northeastern Wisconsin at a...
Continue readingPublished in 1982 from 1981 survey data, the US Geological Survey’s “Phelps” presents a finely observed portrait of northeastern Wisconsin at a particularly intimate 1:24,000 scale. Centered on the community of Phelps, the map captures a landscape shaped by water, timber, glacial terrain, and the quiet geometry of rural roads and trails. Its topographic language is precise and elegant: contour lines trace the region’s gentle rises and hollows, while color distinguishes lakes, wetlands, woodland, and settled areas with the clarity for which USGS quadrangles are prized. More than a navigational document, it is a measured record of place—an authoritative snapshot of Phelps and its surroundings at the beginning of the 1980s.
The United States Geological Survey, founded in 1879, became the preeminent American institution for mapping the nation’s physical form. Its quadrangle maps combined scientific rigor with a visual discipline that made them indispensable to engineers, foresters, planners, hikers, and conservationists. In “Phelps,” that tradition is on full display: survey markers, elevation indicators, drainage patterns, and transportation routes are carefully integrated into a readable, layered composition. The map’s 1:24,000 scale allows individual terrain features to emerge without sacrificing broader geographic context. It reflects the USGS ideal of mapping as both measurement and public service, transforming field survey data into a durable visual account of land, water, and human settlement.
Phelps lies in Wisconsin’s lake country near the Michigan border, a region defined by dense forest, rolling glacial topography, and an intricate chain of waters. The map shows Watersmeet Lake, Vance Lake, and other smaller lakes and waterways as essential features of the local geography, their shapes standing out in blue against the wooded terrain. Rivers and trails thread through the surrounding landscape, suggesting the older logic of movement by water, forest path, and later rural road. Elevation changes are modest but meaningful, revealing the undulating character typical of this part of the Northwoods, where glacial deposits, low ridges, wetlands, and lake basins create a landscape of subtle complexity.
The presence of major forested areas, including Niccollin National Forest and Ottawa National Forest in the wider mapped context, gives the sheet particular historical and environmental resonance. This is a region long associated with logging, conservation, hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation, and the map preserves a moment in the evolving relationship between settlement and wilderness. Forest boundaries, trails, water bodies, and terrain features together convey the practical realities of land management and recreation in the early 1980s. For those interested in conservation history, the map offers evidence of how the area was understood, accessed, and administered at that time, before later changes in development, infrastructure, and ecological policy reshaped parts of the region.
Visually, “Phelps” has the understated beauty of a classic USGS topographic quadrangle: crisp lettering, harmonious color, and a dense but orderly field of information. The vibrant distinction between wooded land, open water, contouring, and human infrastructure gives the map both utility and aesthetic appeal. It invites close reading, rewarding attention with the discovery of trails, survey points, lakeshores, ridgelines, and small place names embedded in the Northwoods landscape. As a historical document, it records the geography of Phelps with exceptional specificity; as a designed object, it embodies the disciplined elegance of late twentieth-century American cartography. It is a compelling map for anyone drawn to Wisconsin’s forests, lakes, and regional history.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Phelps
- Niccollin National Forest
- Ottawa National Forest
- Watersmeet Lake
- Vance Lake
- Multiple rivers and trails
- Nearby towns indicated in the surrounding area
- Various roads
- Forested areas and terrain features
- Survey markers and elevation indicators
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the US Geological Survey (USGS)
- Created in 1981 and published in 1982
- Detailed topographic map at a 1:24,000 scale
- Uses color to clearly distinguish geographic features
- Shows the undulating terrain typical of the Wisconsin landscape
- Reflects geographic data from 1981, offering a historical snapshot of the area
- Useful for understanding changes in development, land use, and conservation over time
- Created by the USGS, known for reliable geological and topographical mapping
- Designed for practical uses including environmental planning, conservation, outdoor recreation, and navigation
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 in 1982 from 1981 survey data, the US Geological Survey’s “Phelps” presents a finely observed portrait of northeastern Wisconsin at a particularly intimate 1:24,000 scale. Centered on the community of Phelps, the map captures a landscape shaped by water, timber, glacial terrain, and the quiet geometry of rural roads and trails. Its topographic language is precise and elegant: contour lines trace the region’s gentle rises and hollows, while color distinguishes lakes, wetlands, woodland, and settled areas with the clarity for which USGS quadrangles are prized. More than a navigational document, it is a measured record of place—an authoritative snapshot of Phelps and its surroundings at the beginning of the 1980s.
The United States Geological Survey, founded in 1879, became the preeminent American institution for mapping the nation’s physical form. Its quadrangle maps combined scientific rigor with a visual discipline that made them indispensable to engineers, foresters, planners, hikers, and conservationists. In “Phelps,” that tradition is on full display: survey markers, elevation indicators, drainage patterns, and transportation routes are carefully integrated into a readable, layered composition. The map’s 1:24,000 scale allows individual terrain features to emerge without sacrificing broader geographic context. It reflects the USGS ideal of mapping as both measurement and public service, transforming field survey data into a durable visual account of land, water, and human settlement.
Phelps lies in Wisconsin’s lake country near the Michigan border, a region defined by dense forest, rolling glacial topography, and an intricate chain of waters. The map shows Watersmeet Lake, Vance Lake, and other smaller lakes and waterways as essential features of the local geography, their shapes standing out in blue against the wooded terrain. Rivers and trails thread through the surrounding landscape, suggesting the older logic of movement by water, forest path, and later rural road. Elevation changes are modest but meaningful, revealing the undulating character typical of this part of the Northwoods, where glacial deposits, low ridges, wetlands, and lake basins create a landscape of subtle complexity.
The presence of major forested areas, including Niccollin National Forest and Ottawa National Forest in the wider mapped context, gives the sheet particular historical and environmental resonance. This is a region long associated with logging, conservation, hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation, and the map preserves a moment in the evolving relationship between settlement and wilderness. Forest boundaries, trails, water bodies, and terrain features together convey the practical realities of land management and recreation in the early 1980s. For those interested in conservation history, the map offers evidence of how the area was understood, accessed, and administered at that time, before later changes in development, infrastructure, and ecological policy reshaped parts of the region.
Visually, “Phelps” has the understated beauty of a classic USGS topographic quadrangle: crisp lettering, harmonious color, and a dense but orderly field of information. The vibrant distinction between wooded land, open water, contouring, and human infrastructure gives the map both utility and aesthetic appeal. It invites close reading, rewarding attention with the discovery of trails, survey points, lakeshores, ridgelines, and small place names embedded in the Northwoods landscape. As a historical document, it records the geography of Phelps with exceptional specificity; as a designed object, it embodies the disciplined elegance of late twentieth-century American cartography. It is a compelling map for anyone drawn to Wisconsin’s forests, lakes, and regional history.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Phelps
- Niccollin National Forest
- Ottawa National Forest
- Watersmeet Lake
- Vance Lake
- Multiple rivers and trails
- Nearby towns indicated in the surrounding area
- Various roads
- Forested areas and terrain features
- Survey markers and elevation indicators
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the US Geological Survey (USGS)
- Created in 1981 and published in 1982
- Detailed topographic map at a 1:24,000 scale
- Uses color to clearly distinguish geographic features
- Shows the undulating terrain typical of the Wisconsin landscape
- Reflects geographic data from 1981, offering a historical snapshot of the area
- Useful for understanding changes in development, land use, and conservation over time
- Created by the USGS, known for reliable geological and topographical mapping
- Designed for practical uses including environmental planning, conservation, outdoor recreation, and navigation
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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