Map of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina by USGS, 1980: Masonboro & Intracoastal Waterway
Restored in our London workshop from the original 1985 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%.
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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 1985 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.
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Published in 1985 from 1980 survey work, the U.S. Geological Survey’s “Wrightsville Beach” presents a richly detailed portrait of the North Carolina...
Continue readingPublished in 1985 from 1980 survey work, the U.S. Geological Survey’s “Wrightsville Beach” presents a richly detailed portrait of the North Carolina coast at a moment when recreation, residential growth, and fragile barrier-island environments were increasingly intertwined. At 1:24,000 scale, the map captures Wrightsville Beach and its mainland neighbors with the precision for which USGS quadrangles are renowned. The Atlantic shoreline, tidal marshes, creeks, channels, and the Intracoastal Waterway are rendered in clear relationship to streets, neighborhoods, and developed areas, making the sheet both a geographic document and a snapshot of coastal life in the early 1980s. Its blend of topographic information and color imagery gives the low-lying landscape a particularly vivid sense of texture and place.
The U.S. Geological Survey, established in 1879, became the authoritative cartographic voice of the American landscape, producing maps that served engineers, planners, scientists, outdoor enthusiasts, and government agencies alike. This Wrightsville Beach quadrangle reflects the Survey’s mature twentieth-century mapping style: systematic, legible, and intensely practical, yet visually compelling in its treatment of coastal form. Elevation contours are subtle but important here, revealing a landscape where even small changes in height matter. Beaches, marshlands, and built-up areas sit in a delicate equilibrium, and the map’s precision underscores how barrier islands and tidal zones are shaped by water as much as by land.
Wrightsville Beach itself dominates the coastal edge, shown as a slender, developed barrier community facing the Atlantic Ocean and sheltered inland by waterways and marsh. Long associated with swimming, boating, fishing, and seaside leisure, the town occupies a geography that is both alluring and vulnerable. The map records the patterns of access, settlement, and shoreline use that helped define its modern character. Nearby channels and waterways emphasize the importance of navigation and recreation, while the presence of beaches and tidal flats evokes the shifting nature of the coast. In this sense, the map is not merely a guide to place, but a record of a dynamic maritime environment.
Across the water and inland, Winter Park and Seagate appear as residential communities tied closely to the growth of the Wilmington coastal corridor. Their inclusion gives the map a broader social and geographic frame, showing how mainland neighborhoods supported and connected with the resort landscape of Wrightsville Beach. Masonboro, meanwhile, introduces a more ecological dimension. Known for its natural habitats and wildlife-rich marshes, the Masonboro area stands in contrast to the more developed beach and suburban zones. Creeks, marshlands, and tidal channels create a complex coastal mosaic, suggesting the environmental richness that has made this part of North Carolina significant for conservation as well as recreation.
Viewed historically, the map is especially compelling because it captures coastal North Carolina before several further decades of development, shoreline management, storm impacts, erosion, and conservation initiatives altered the region. The early 1980s were a period of expanding coastal infrastructure and growing awareness of the fragility of barrier islands and wetlands. This quadrangle preserves the arrangement of beaches, roads, waterways, marshes, and communities at that time, allowing modern viewers to trace what has endured and what has changed. Its careful rendering of the Intracoastal Waterway, Atlantic shoreline, creeks, and low elevations makes it a valuable document of both human settlement and the restless natural systems that continue to shape Wrightsville Beach.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Wrightsville Beach
- Winter Park
- Seagate
- Masonboro
- Intracoastal Waterway
- Channels
- Atlantic Ocean
- Beaches
- Marshlands
- Creeks
Historical context & cartographic details
- Historical 1:24,000 topographical map showing Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, and the surrounding area.
- Produced in 1980 and published in 1985.
- Created and published by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
- The U.S. Geological Survey has provided detailed and accurate geospatial mapping of the United States since its establishment in 1879.
- The map uses a blend of topographic features and color imagery to create clear visual contrast between land and water features.
- Detailed elevation contours show variations in the low-lying coastal landscape, including beaches and marshlands.
- The map reflects development and environmental change in coastal North Carolina since the 1980s, including urban development, coastal erosion, and conservation efforts.
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 1985 from 1980 survey work, the U.S. Geological Survey’s “Wrightsville Beach” presents a richly detailed portrait of the North Carolina coast at a moment when recreation, residential growth, and fragile barrier-island environments were increasingly intertwined. At 1:24,000 scale, the map captures Wrightsville Beach and its mainland neighbors with the precision for which USGS quadrangles are renowned. The Atlantic shoreline, tidal marshes, creeks, channels, and the Intracoastal Waterway are rendered in clear relationship to streets, neighborhoods, and developed areas, making the sheet both a geographic document and a snapshot of coastal life in the early 1980s. Its blend of topographic information and color imagery gives the low-lying landscape a particularly vivid sense of texture and place.
The U.S. Geological Survey, established in 1879, became the authoritative cartographic voice of the American landscape, producing maps that served engineers, planners, scientists, outdoor enthusiasts, and government agencies alike. This Wrightsville Beach quadrangle reflects the Survey’s mature twentieth-century mapping style: systematic, legible, and intensely practical, yet visually compelling in its treatment of coastal form. Elevation contours are subtle but important here, revealing a landscape where even small changes in height matter. Beaches, marshlands, and built-up areas sit in a delicate equilibrium, and the map’s precision underscores how barrier islands and tidal zones are shaped by water as much as by land.
Wrightsville Beach itself dominates the coastal edge, shown as a slender, developed barrier community facing the Atlantic Ocean and sheltered inland by waterways and marsh. Long associated with swimming, boating, fishing, and seaside leisure, the town occupies a geography that is both alluring and vulnerable. The map records the patterns of access, settlement, and shoreline use that helped define its modern character. Nearby channels and waterways emphasize the importance of navigation and recreation, while the presence of beaches and tidal flats evokes the shifting nature of the coast. In this sense, the map is not merely a guide to place, but a record of a dynamic maritime environment.
Across the water and inland, Winter Park and Seagate appear as residential communities tied closely to the growth of the Wilmington coastal corridor. Their inclusion gives the map a broader social and geographic frame, showing how mainland neighborhoods supported and connected with the resort landscape of Wrightsville Beach. Masonboro, meanwhile, introduces a more ecological dimension. Known for its natural habitats and wildlife-rich marshes, the Masonboro area stands in contrast to the more developed beach and suburban zones. Creeks, marshlands, and tidal channels create a complex coastal mosaic, suggesting the environmental richness that has made this part of North Carolina significant for conservation as well as recreation.
Viewed historically, the map is especially compelling because it captures coastal North Carolina before several further decades of development, shoreline management, storm impacts, erosion, and conservation initiatives altered the region. The early 1980s were a period of expanding coastal infrastructure and growing awareness of the fragility of barrier islands and wetlands. This quadrangle preserves the arrangement of beaches, roads, waterways, marshes, and communities at that time, allowing modern viewers to trace what has endured and what has changed. Its careful rendering of the Intracoastal Waterway, Atlantic shoreline, creeks, and low elevations makes it a valuable document of both human settlement and the restless natural systems that continue to shape Wrightsville Beach.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Wrightsville Beach
- Winter Park
- Seagate
- Masonboro
- Intracoastal Waterway
- Channels
- Atlantic Ocean
- Beaches
- Marshlands
- Creeks
Historical context & cartographic details
- Historical 1:24,000 topographical map showing Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, and the surrounding area.
- Produced in 1980 and published in 1985.
- Created and published by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
- The U.S. Geological Survey has provided detailed and accurate geospatial mapping of the United States since its establishment in 1879.
- The map uses a blend of topographic features and color imagery to create clear visual contrast between land and water features.
- Detailed elevation contours show variations in the low-lying coastal landscape, including beaches and marshlands.
- The map reflects development and environmental change in coastal North Carolina since the 1980s, including urban development, coastal erosion, and conservation efforts.
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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