1962 Map of Cross Plains

About this map

Cross Plains and its surrounding townships define this 1962 landscape, where the unglaciated driftless hills meet the glacial plains of western Dane County. The terrain is deeply carved by Black Earth Creek and the Sugar River, supporting a network of agricultural hamlets like Marxville, Pine Bluff, and Klevenville. High points are marked by specialized landmarks, notably the Pine Bluff Observatory and a Radio Tower near the southern boundary. The presence of Richardson Cave and Table Bluff indicates a karst landscape with significant local topography. Transport and commerce revolve around the Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific rail line, which services the growing villages of Middleton and Mt Horeb. Evidence of early community life remains in the numerous rural cemeteries like Sunning Hill Cem and country churches such as Vermont Ch, while mid-century modernization is visible at the Drive-in Theater and Morey Airport.