This fascinating lot includes rare items related to the rapid development of Dauphin Island in the 1950s. The construction of the Gordon Persons Bridge (later renamed the Dauphin Island Bridge) connecting Dauphin Island to the mainland triggered a development boom on the island. The bridge opened to the public on July 2, 1955.

The Official Plat Book of 1953 Subdivision of Dauphin Island, Ala. (16.0 x 9.0"), prepared by land surveyors Richard J. Scott and Associates for the Mobile Chamber of Commerce, shows the groundwork for the development. It includes 23 plat survey maps on blue paper showing blocks, lots, streets, alleys, and public grounds. At the end of the book are two index maps (approximately 23.0 x 8.3"). The first index map includes two insets, one depicting a stretch of land to the west along the Mississippi Sound, the second laying out the details of the bridge and causeway right-of-way. The second index map identifies commercial areas, trailer parks, rental cottage and apartment areas, village area, and more. Condition: There is light toning that is mostly confined to the edges and some creased corners. Index map is lightly soiled with short edge tears. The booklet has been folded in half, leaving a soft crease, and the paper covers are lightly soiled with a creased and toned edge to the front cover. (B)

A folding variant of the Richard Scott and Associates index map (without the key or the bridge inset) is included with this example of Richebourg Gaillard McWilliams' History of Beautiful Dauphin Island (6.0 x 9.0") a promotional booklet that includes a history of Dauphin Island as well as an explainer for its street names. McWilliams served as the chairman of the Division of Humanities at Birmingham-Southern College and was a respected historian who translated Iberville's Gulf Journals. He headed up the Committee on Nomenclature assigned to name the island's new streets. Published by the Mobile Chamber of Commerce and Dauphin Island Land Sales Corporation. 32 pages. Soft illustrated covers. Condition: Map is issued folding, like new. Book is near fine with a touch of soiling on covers. (A)

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See description above.