1949 Map of Ennis

About this map

The Madison River valley dominates this postwar landscape, centered on the expansion of Ennis Lake and the vital hydro-infrastructure supporting the region. The map details a transition from the river-bottom settlement of Ennis and the smaller community of Jeffers to the high elevations of the Madison Range. Along the river's path, the Madison Powerhouse and the Old Madison Powerhouse (Aband) indicate the evolving energy needs of Madison County, while the numerous irrigation works like the Bear Creek Ditch and Spring Creek Ditch illustrate the complex water management required for the valley's ranches. Significant social and recreational landmarks appear, including the Lake Shore Lodge, Windy Water Resort, and Cowboys Heaven, while the Beaverhead National Forest and Gallatin National Forest boundaries mark the rugged eastern terrain.