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1958 Map of Big Rapids

Name: 1958 Topographic Map of Big Rapids
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1978
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1978

About this map

Big Rapids serves as the focal point of this mid-century landscape, positioned along the banks of the Muskegon River where the Pennsylvania railroad line cuts through the city. The presence of the Ferris Institute and the nearby Airport highlights the area's development as an educational and regional hub. To the south, the river is harnessed by the Rogers Dam, creating the Rogers Dam Pond, a significant modification of the natural waterway that reflects the era's focus on hydroelectric power and water management.

Rural Mecosta County is documented in high detail, showing a network of small settlements like Stanwood, Altona, and Rodney. The map is particularly useful for genealogical research, capturing numerous family-named landmarks and local burial grounds such as Quigley Cem, Altona Cem, and Hinton Cem. The northern sections are dominated by the Haymarsh Lake State Game Area and Chippewa River State Forest, preserving a dense lake-and-stream environment including Chippewa Lake and Round Lake.