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1918 Map of Cedar Springs

Name: 1918 Topographic Map of Cedar Springs
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1918
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1918

About this map

Grand River flows through the heart of this region during the First World War, carving a path through Kent County's developing townships. The landscape is defined by the convergence of industrial and agricultural life, where the Pere Marquette and Grand Rapids and Indiana railroads intersect at key hubs like Sparta and Cedar Springs. Along the river's lower reach, large-scale landmarks such as the West Michigan State Fairgrounds, the Soldiers Home, and the U S Rifle Range reflect the civic and military importance of the North Park and Comstock Park areas.

Rural life is meticulously documented through a dense network of one-room schoolhouses, including the uniquely named Block Tavern School and Christian Hill School. The reliance on local water power for industry is still visible at sites like Kanes Mill and Bradley Mill. The terrain is punctuated by numerous kettle lakes, such as Indian Lake and Pickerel Lake, and distinct topographic features like the Cheney Hills, providing a clear record of the glacial geography before modern suburban expansion transformed the outskirts of Grand Rapids.