1961 Map of Bedford

About this map

The boundary between Barry and Calhoun Counties divides a landscape defined by its glacial hydrology, where deep-blue water bodies like St Marys Lake and Wabascon Lake are interspersed with smaller kettle lakes such as Culver Lake and Metcalf Lake. The early 1960s rural infrastructure is well-preserved here, showing the distribution of local education through sites like Monroe and Poorman Sch. The settlement of Bedford serves as a southern anchor, while smaller hamlets like Lacey and Assyria maintain their character in the northern sections. A notable 1972 revision highlights the Sky Valley Landing Strip and the residential expansion around Marywood Country Club, signaling the transition from purely agricultural use to recreational and suburban development. The presence of multiple cemeteries, including Ellis Cem and Lacey Cem, alongside landmarks like Bethel Chapel, offers significant grounding for local family history research in this part of Michigan.