1959 Map of Dekoven

About this map

The Ohio River dominates this landscape, serving as the border between Union County, Kentucky, and the Shawnee National Forest in Illinois. In the late 1950s, this riverine economy was tied to the Illinois Central railroad, which connected settlements like Henshaw and Dekoven across the undulating terrain of the Chapel Hills and Paris Hills. The map captures a detailed view of small communities and rural life, featuring landmarks such as Caseyville and Mulfordtown along the riverbanks, and Bells Mines tucked further inland. Notable for genealogists are several small burial grounds and houses of worship, including St Ambrose Ch, Bells Mines Ch, and the Odd Fellows Cem. The presence of the Tradewater River and O'Nan Ditch illustrates the complex drainage and historical reliance on local water systems for both agriculture and transportation.