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1961 Map of Deep River

Name: 1961 Topographic Map of Deep River
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1972
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1972

About this map

The Connecticut River dominates this mid-century landscape, carving a wide path past historic riverfront settlements and deep wooded preserves. On the eastern bank, Gillette Castle State Park stands atop the heights, while the valley floor below reveals a complex network of tidal flats and islands like Lord Island and Rich Island. The 1961 survey (with 1971 updates) captures the transition from traditional river industry to a landscape of recreation and preservation, evidenced by the numerous state forests and parks including Haddam Meadows State Park and Cockaponset State Forest.

Genealogists and local historians will find significant detail in the distribution of family-named landmarks and old burial sites, such as the Old Cove Burying Ground and Hearse Hill Cem in Chester. The map tracks the development of Deep River and East Haddam, showing the interplay between industrial features like the Pratt Read Reservoir and the quiet reaches of Bashan Lake. This record preserves the location of vanished infrastructure, from the Landing Strip near Chapman Pond to the various landings that once served the river’s maritime trade.