Rare Old Map of Provincetown, Massachusetts by USGS, 1944: Cape Cod Bay & Race Point
Restored in our London workshop from the original 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 the USA
My maps are rare, museum-grade, restored old maps sourced from libraries, auction houses and private collections across the globe. Full description
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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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Published in 1944, the U.S. Geological Survey’s “Provincetown, Massachusetts” presents the far curled tip of Cape Cod with the precision and restraint...
Continue readingPublished in 1944, the U.S. Geological Survey’s “Provincetown, Massachusetts” presents the far curled tip of Cape Cod with the precision and restraint that made USGS topographic maps indispensable to travelers, planners, scientists, and historians. At a scale of 1:31,680, it captures Provincetown at a revealing mid-century moment, before many later changes to roads, shorelines, tourism infrastructure, and protected landscapes altered the visual and human geography of the Outer Cape. The map’s fine contour work traces the low but varied relief of dunes, coastal rises, marsh margins, and settled ground, while its careful labeling fixes familiar names—Provincetown Harbor, Herring Cove, Race Point, and MacMillan Pier—within a broader Atlantic landscape shaped by wind, tide, and sand.
Provincetown itself appears as the principal settlement, compressed between harbor and open sea at one of New England’s most dramatic coastal locations. Long known as a fishing port, artists’ colony, and maritime refuge, the town occupies a naturally sheltered curve on Cape Cod Bay, where Provincetown Harbor offered anchorage at the edge of the Atlantic. MacMillan Pier, shown extending into the harbor, evokes the town’s working waterfront and its connections to fishing fleets, ferries, and coastal commerce. Beyond the denser street pattern of town, the map opens into a landscape of dunes, roads, trails, beaches, and scattered vegetation, revealing the delicate balance between human occupation and the restless coastal environment that has always defined Provincetown.
The cartographic language of the USGS is particularly effective here, using color, contour, and symbol to convey a richly varied coastal terrain. Shades of green and brown distinguish vegetation, landform, and elevation, while contour lines articulate the subtle undulations of the Outer Cape’s sandy surface. Unlike maps of mountainous regions, this sheet rewards close looking: minor rises, marsh edges, dune fields, and shoreline curves become the essential drama. Herring Cove and Race Point Beach anchor the ocean-facing side of the map, where the Cape meets the Atlantic in a shifting zone of surf, sandbars, and exposed shore. Inland, marshes and woodland areas add texture to a landscape often imagined only as beach and harbor.
Race Point, one of the defining landmarks of the map, marks the northern extremity of Cape Cod and one of its most historically significant maritime zones. The waters off this point were long feared by navigators for shoals, fog, storms, and strong currents, making accurate mapping essential to coastal safety. Nearby Race Point Beach and the surrounding dunes suggest both the beauty and danger of this exposed promontory. The inclusion of Highland Light to the southeast connects the sheet to the broader lighthouse geography of Cape Cod, where beacons helped guide vessels along a treacherous but heavily traveled Atlantic corridor. The map thus reads not only as a topographic document, but as a record of seafaring, vigilance, and coastal adaptation.
As a 1944 USGS production, this map belongs to a distinguished tradition of federal survey work that transformed American geographic knowledge. The U.S. Geological Survey, founded in 1879, created standardized maps that combined scientific rigor with practical public use, charting terrain for engineering, conservation, resource study, military planning, and civic development. In wartime America, accurate coastal maps carried particular importance, especially along exposed Atlantic shores. Today, this Provincetown sheet offers a compelling historical snapshot of P-town and its surrounding natural landscapes before later decades of growth, preservation, and tourism reshaped the region. It preserves the Outer Cape as a finely observed composition of harbor, dune, marsh, road, trail, beach, and open ocean.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Provincetown
- Herring Cove
- Race Point
- Cape Cod Bay
- MacMillan Pier
- Highland Light
- Pilgrim Lake
- Race Point Beach
- Provincetown Harbor
- P-town — nickname for Provincetown
- Various woodlands and marsh areas
- Multiple roads and trails
- Shoreline and coastline along the Atlantic Ocean
- Notable land contour features indicated by contour lines
Historical context & cartographic details
- Map name: Provincetown, Massachusetts
- Produced by the U.S. Geological Survey — USGS
- Published in 1944
- Scale: 1:31,680
- Showcases Provincetown and the surrounding area as surveyed in the mid-20th century
- Provides insight into the region’s geographical and topographical features at the time of publication
- The USGS has been a key agency in mapping the United States, contributing significantly to geological and geographic understanding through extensive survey work
- Uses distinctive color coding to indicate elevation and different land uses
- Employs shades of green and brown to show topography and vegetation
- Depicts coastal areas, marshes, and elevated terrain with clear contour lines
- Offers a historical snapshot of the area before later urban development and landscape changes
- Useful for comparing historical geography with the modern Provincetown landscape
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 1944, the U.S. Geological Survey’s “Provincetown, Massachusetts” presents the far curled tip of Cape Cod with the precision and restraint that made USGS topographic maps indispensable to travelers, planners, scientists, and historians. At a scale of 1:31,680, it captures Provincetown at a revealing mid-century moment, before many later changes to roads, shorelines, tourism infrastructure, and protected landscapes altered the visual and human geography of the Outer Cape. The map’s fine contour work traces the low but varied relief of dunes, coastal rises, marsh margins, and settled ground, while its careful labeling fixes familiar names—Provincetown Harbor, Herring Cove, Race Point, and MacMillan Pier—within a broader Atlantic landscape shaped by wind, tide, and sand.
Provincetown itself appears as the principal settlement, compressed between harbor and open sea at one of New England’s most dramatic coastal locations. Long known as a fishing port, artists’ colony, and maritime refuge, the town occupies a naturally sheltered curve on Cape Cod Bay, where Provincetown Harbor offered anchorage at the edge of the Atlantic. MacMillan Pier, shown extending into the harbor, evokes the town’s working waterfront and its connections to fishing fleets, ferries, and coastal commerce. Beyond the denser street pattern of town, the map opens into a landscape of dunes, roads, trails, beaches, and scattered vegetation, revealing the delicate balance between human occupation and the restless coastal environment that has always defined Provincetown.
The cartographic language of the USGS is particularly effective here, using color, contour, and symbol to convey a richly varied coastal terrain. Shades of green and brown distinguish vegetation, landform, and elevation, while contour lines articulate the subtle undulations of the Outer Cape’s sandy surface. Unlike maps of mountainous regions, this sheet rewards close looking: minor rises, marsh edges, dune fields, and shoreline curves become the essential drama. Herring Cove and Race Point Beach anchor the ocean-facing side of the map, where the Cape meets the Atlantic in a shifting zone of surf, sandbars, and exposed shore. Inland, marshes and woodland areas add texture to a landscape often imagined only as beach and harbor.
Race Point, one of the defining landmarks of the map, marks the northern extremity of Cape Cod and one of its most historically significant maritime zones. The waters off this point were long feared by navigators for shoals, fog, storms, and strong currents, making accurate mapping essential to coastal safety. Nearby Race Point Beach and the surrounding dunes suggest both the beauty and danger of this exposed promontory. The inclusion of Highland Light to the southeast connects the sheet to the broader lighthouse geography of Cape Cod, where beacons helped guide vessels along a treacherous but heavily traveled Atlantic corridor. The map thus reads not only as a topographic document, but as a record of seafaring, vigilance, and coastal adaptation.
As a 1944 USGS production, this map belongs to a distinguished tradition of federal survey work that transformed American geographic knowledge. The U.S. Geological Survey, founded in 1879, created standardized maps that combined scientific rigor with practical public use, charting terrain for engineering, conservation, resource study, military planning, and civic development. In wartime America, accurate coastal maps carried particular importance, especially along exposed Atlantic shores. Today, this Provincetown sheet offers a compelling historical snapshot of P-town and its surrounding natural landscapes before later decades of growth, preservation, and tourism reshaped the region. It preserves the Outer Cape as a finely observed composition of harbor, dune, marsh, road, trail, beach, and open ocean.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Provincetown
- Herring Cove
- Race Point
- Cape Cod Bay
- MacMillan Pier
- Highland Light
- Pilgrim Lake
- Race Point Beach
- Provincetown Harbor
- P-town — nickname for Provincetown
- Various woodlands and marsh areas
- Multiple roads and trails
- Shoreline and coastline along the Atlantic Ocean
- Notable land contour features indicated by contour lines
Historical context & cartographic details
- Map name: Provincetown, Massachusetts
- Produced by the U.S. Geological Survey — USGS
- Published in 1944
- Scale: 1:31,680
- Showcases Provincetown and the surrounding area as surveyed in the mid-20th century
- Provides insight into the region’s geographical and topographical features at the time of publication
- The USGS has been a key agency in mapping the United States, contributing significantly to geological and geographic understanding through extensive survey work
- Uses distinctive color coding to indicate elevation and different land uses
- Employs shades of green and brown to show topography and vegetation
- Depicts coastal areas, marshes, and elevated terrain with clear contour lines
- Offers a historical snapshot of the area before later urban development and landscape changes
- Useful for comparing historical geography with the modern Provincetown landscape
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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