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1986 Map of Carbondale

Name: 1986 Topographic Map of Carbondale
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1986
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1986

About this map

The Mississippi River defines the western edge of this 1980s landscape, winding past Kaskaskia Island and the riverside community of Chester. Inland, the region is characterized by a dense network of water bodies and conservation areas, including the expansive Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge and the rugged Shawnee National Forest. The map captures the prominence of Southern Illinois University in the east, while the northern sections show the industrial footprint of Strip Mines near Du Quoin.

Cultural and institutional landmarks are scattered throughout, from the historic Fort Gage and St Marys Seminary to the numerous small settlements like Herrin, Vergennes, and Campbell Hill. This survey illustrates the complex relationship between the area’s natural water features, such as Kinkaid Lake and Cedar Lake, and the rail lines of the Burlington Northern and Illinois Central Gulf that supported the local economy.