The pictorial map titled Houston: City of Tomorrow offers a lively and colorful depiction of Houston, blending vibrant illustrations with local humor to capture the city’s character.
The map focuses on the downtown area, showcasing prominent skyscrapers such as the Entex building, the Houston Chronicle building, and the Rice Hotel. Landmarks like The Galleria shopping center and the Astrodome are illustrated in a playful, exaggerated style typical of promotional maps from the mid-20th century. The surrounding neighborhoods are depicted with various points of interest, interspersed with trees, roads, and whimsical elements like animals in cowboy attire, parachuting figures, and lively scenes in the clouds.
Transportation routes are prominently displayed, with major streets and highways populated by tiny cars, contributing to the bustling urban atmosphere. Among the key locations featured are The Galleria, a major shopping center; the iconic Astrodome, symbolizing Houston's sports culture; and Joske’s, a prominent department store of the era. Also illustrated are Houston institutions like the Houston Post and Houston Chronicle, significant publications reflecting the city's media landscape. Retail landmarks such as Finger’s Furniture, Battelstein’s, and Foley’s department stores are highlighted, representing the commercial vitality of the time. Additionally, the Cokesbury Bookstore is depicted, reflecting the diversity of shopping and cultural experiences within the city.
Overall, the map’s blend of artistic expression, humor, and detailed urban landmarks makes it both an entertaining and informative snapshot of Houston during the era it was created, capturing a city on the rise and brimming with character.