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1948 Map of Chester

Name: 1948 Topographic Map of Chester
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1948
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1948

About this map

The West Branch Westfield River and Middle Branch Westfield River carve through the hills of Hampden and Hampshire Counties, shaping a landscape defined by its waterways and early mountain roads. In the post-war years, the town of Chester serves as a vital transit point along the Boston and Albany RR and State Highway 20, while smaller settlements like Ringville, Littleville, and South Worthington remain connected by a network of rural routes such as Ireland Street and Smith Road.

Genealogists can find numerous family-named landmarks and resting places, including Old Leonard Cem, Wright Cem, and Piney Grove Cem. The presence of an Airway Beacon on Gobble Mtn reflects mid-century aviation infrastructure. The map also captures the distinct hill country topography, with features like Glendale Falls, Bemis Hill, and the expansive Jackson Swamp illustrating the varied environment of the Berkshires region.