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1926 Map of Duquoin

Name: 1926 Topographic Map of Duquoin
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1950
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1950

About this map

Duquoin and the surrounding coalfields of Southern Illinois appear here at a time of significant industrial and rural development. The landscape is heavily marked by the region's mining heritage, featuring specific operations such as the Big Ben Mine and Paradise Mine, alongside smaller workings like the Gayle Mine. The settlement pattern follows a dense network of railroads, including the Illinois Central and Missouri Pacific, which fueled the growth of towns like Tamaroa, Sesser, and Waltonville.

Rural life is meticulously documented through dozens of named schools and churches that served scattered farming families. Notable sites include Lone Oak School, Horsepasture Church, and Youngs Chapel. The terrain is defined by the drainage systems of the Little Muddy River and Big Muddy River, with specific landmarks such as Gallaway Bridge and Bald Hill providing local orientation. This survey captures a transition where traditional agrarian structures, such as Bear Point School, existed alongside the expanding infrastructure of the Illinois coal belt.