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1954 Map of Becket

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Becket
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1954
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1954

About this map

The hills of the Berkshire Range define the landscape on this mid-century survey, where the Boston and Albany RR follows the winding path of the West Branch of the Westfield River. Local industry and settlement are concentrated along these watercourses, with Middlefield Sta and Bancroft serving as key points of activity near the Hampshire County line. The map highlights the transition from upland farming and forest to the small community hubs that characterized this era of Massachusetts history.

Genealogists and local historians can trace the network of secondary routes like Schultz Road and Benton Hill Road that connect isolated landmarks. Significant water bodies such as Center Pond, Yokum Pond, and Rudd Pond are prominent features, alongside historic locations like Washington Cem and Bonny Rigg Corners. The inclusion of named hollows and hills, such as Brush Hollow and Johnnycake Hill, provides a clear view of the topographical naming conventions used by the inhabitants of Becket and Middlefield during this period.