1894 Map of Allentown

About this map

Industrial expansion and river-borne commerce dominate the landscape along the Lehigh River in the late nineteenth century. The core of Allentown and the sister cities of Bethlehem, West Bethlehem, and South Bethlehem are shown in their Victorian-era street grids, surrounded by a dense network of iron and zinc manufacturing towns like Catasauqua, Hokendauqua, and Coplay. The infrastructure of the Lehigh Valley's peak industrial years is meticulously detailed, showcasing the parallel paths of the Lehigh Canal and competing rail lines including the Central R.R. of N.J. and the Lehigh Valley R.R.. Away from the river, the map reveals a countryside of established crossroads and hamlets such as Schoenersville, Hecktown, and Brodhead. Distinctive local landmarks like Hexenkopf Hill and Pine Top punctuate the ridges of Northampton and Lehigh Counties.