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1947 Map of Cassopolis

Name: 1947 Topographic Map of Cassopolis
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1947
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1947

About this map

Dowagiac and Cassopolis anchor this mid-century portrait of southwest Michigan, where the landscape is defined by a dense network of glacial lakes and small rural school districts. The 1940s environment is meticulously documented, showing the transition from the industrial activity in Niles to the agricultural reaches of Wayne and Jefferson townships. Genealogists will find significant value in the location of numerous country burying grounds such as Crawford Cem and Riverside Cem, alongside social centers like the Town Hall and the Infirmary near Stone Lake.

Hydrography plays a central role here, with the Dowagiac River and Dowagiac Creek winding through the terrain. The map captures local landmarks like Crystal Springs Camp Ground and Morris Chapel, providing a clear view of the community infrastructure before modern consolidation. Notable rural arteries like Yankee Street connect scattered schoolhouses, including Mayflower Sch and Brooklyn Sch, which once served as the cornerstones of these outlying settlements.