1898 Map of Elk Point

About this map

The Missouri River and its major tributaries, the Vermillion River and Big Sioux River, define the landscape of this tri-state border region before the era of modern channelization. The river culture of the late nineteenth century is clearly visible through active crossings such as Vermilion Ferry, Ionia Ferry, and Ponca Ferry. These transit points supported an economy linked by major rail lines, including the Chicago Milwaukee and St. Paul RR, which connected settlements like Vermillion, Burbank, and Elk Point.