1961 Map of Clear Lake

About this map

The Mississippi River creates a natural southern boundary for this central Minnesota landscape, where the settlements of Clear Lake and Becker serve as anchors along a busy transportation corridor. The Northern Pacific and Great Northern railroads run parallel through the heart of the region, facilitating the movement of goods and people between the river valley and the interior lakes. Central to the local identity is a cluster of water bodies including Briggs Lake, Rush Lake, and Elk Lake, which support recreational sites like the Campground and the Leaders Clear Lake Airfield. The map documents the intricate drainage systems of Lilly Creek and Rice Creek, alongside smaller landmarks such as the local Cem and several gravel pits, illustrating a mid-century balance between rural agricultural life and the growing transit infrastructure of Sherburne and Wright counties.