1945 Map of Cherokee

About this map

Strip mines dominate the landscape of Crawford and Cherokee counties in this mid-1940s survey, revealing a region defined by industrial coal extraction. The dense network of the St Louis San Francisco RR, Missouri Pacific RR, and Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe RR weaves between towns like West Mineral, Scammon, and Weir, illustrating the vital connection between rail and the mining economy. Notable local landmarks include the Immaculate Conception Ch and numerous rural schools such as Cyclone Sch and Skidmore Sch 19. The map also captures the transition from agriculture to industry, with the State Qual Farm and County Farm Cem situated near expanding excavation areas. Water features like Lightning Creek and Mineral Lake provide the drainage for this heavily modified terrain during a period of peak production.