1957 Map of Belle Plaine

About this map

The Minnesota River cuts a wide, winding valley through this mid-century landscape, serving as the border for Carver, Sibley, Scott, and Le Sueur counties. This river-dominated geography is anchored by the established settlements of Belle Plaine and Henderson, where the Chicago And North Western and Minneapolis And ST Louis railroads track the water's edge. The agricultural uplands are densely dotted with evidence of early German and Irish settlement, featuring several traditional country schools like Zion Sch and School No 24, alongside numerous religious landmarks such as St Thomas Ch and West Union Ch. Unusual local features include the Jessenland (Fish Hatchery) near High Island, while the presence of Henderson Station apart from the town itself illustrates the specific influence of rail logistics on river valley development.