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1887 Map of Belchertown

Name: 1887 Topographic Map of Belchertown
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1887
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1887

About this map

The Swift River valley is captured here in the late 19th century, depicting a landscape that would later be fundamentally altered. This topography focuses on the interconnected village economies of Enfield, Greenwich, and Prescott, showing a network of rural settlements, small-scale farming, and river-side industry. The Swift River and its various tributaries, including the Swift River East Branch and Swift River West Branch, dominate the central terrain, providing the natural infrastructure for local mills and transit.

Railroad development is prominent, with the Boston & Albany R. R. and its Athol Branch tracing the valley floor alongside the Central Vermont R. R. to the west. Local landmarks such as Quabin Hill, Mount Pomeroy, and Brimstone Hill rise above the settlements, while smaller communities like Cooleyville, Millington, and Smiths Sta. appear as vital hubs for the surrounding Hampshire and Worcester County residents.