1940 Map of Brighton

About this map

Agricultural development and water management define the landscape around Brighton just before the mid-twentieth century. The South Platte River winds through the western half of the map, supporting a complex network of ditches and reservoirs such as Barr Lake (Reservoir) and the Stauffer Reservoirs. The presence of the Denver Poor Farm and the Fairgrounds south of the city indicates the region's communal and civic growth. Transportation is anchored by the Union Pacific and the Chicago Burlington and Quincy railroads, which facilitated the movement of goods from local stops like Henderson Sta and Barr Sta. For genealogists, the map identifies specific local institutions including the Pleasant Plains Sch, Cactus Ridge School, and burial sites such as Elmwood Cemetery and Black Cem.