1897 Map of Casselton

About this map

Casselton serves as the central hub for a vast network of railroads crossing the Red River Valley in the late 19th century. The Northern Pacific R. R. (Main Line) bisects the region, connecting a string of grain-elevator settlements including Wheatland, Saxony, and Mapleton. To the south, the meandering Sheyenne River cuts through the township of Helendale, providing a sharp contrast to the rigid grid of section lines that define the agricultural landscape. Genealogists and local historians can trace the early footprints of numerous rural communities, some centered around small stations like Everest and Durbin, or post offices such as Chaffee P.O.. The map illustrates an era of rapid expansion as the Great Northern R. R. and several Northern Pacific branches, such as the Southwestern Branch through Leonard, established the transportation backbone of Cass County.