1939 Map of Cairo

About this map

The confluence of the Ohio River and the Mississippi River creates a high-stakes landscape of hydraulic engineering and river commerce at the southern tip of Illinois. Following a decade of significant river revisions by the Mississippi River Commission, this map reveals a complex network of flood protection, featuring numerous flood gates and levees protecting the low-lying settlements of Mound City, Urbandale, and Future City. The convergence of several major rail lines, including the Illinois Central and the Mobile and Ohio, underscores the area's role as a vital transportation hub. Beyond the industrialized riverfronts, the Kentucky and Illinois floodplains are dotted with numerous small lakes and sloughs like Shelby Lake and Lake Slough, while the northern uplands show established rural communities around Villa Ridge and Pulaski. Local history is anchored by landmarks such as the National Cem and the Grand Chain navigational hazard on the Ohio River.