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1955 Map of Cairo

Name: 1955 Topographic Map of Cairo
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1955
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1955

About this map

The confluence of the Ohio River and Mississippi River defines this 1955 survey, where the strategic city of Cairo sits at the southern tip of Illinois. The landscape is heavily influenced by water management and river trade, with the Cache River winding through the northern portion and numerous sloughs and ponds, such as Swan Pond and Fish Lake, dotting the floodplain. The area's mid-century transit infrastructure is exceptionally detailed, showing the convergence of major rail lines like the Illinois Central and Louisville and Nashville, alongside local landmarks like the Cairo Airport.

Genealogists and local historians will find significant detail in the numerous rural cemeteries and schools, including the National Cemetery near Mound City. The map documents established communities like Grand Chain and Barlow, as well as smaller settlements such as Future City and Urbandale. From the Grand Chain rapids to the intricate network of levees protecting these river towns, the sheet provides a meticulous look at the border region of Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri.