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1962 Map of Gifford

Name: 1962 Topographic Map of Gifford
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1964
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1964

About this map

The agricultural landscape of Jasper County is defined here by an intricate drainage system including the Hershman Ditch and Ryan Ditch, which channel water through the townships of Walker, Barkley, and Gillam. This early 1960s survey illustrates a region where the land was heavily modified for farming, featuring numerous named laterals like Rich Grove Lateral Ditch and Record Lateral Ditch. The small settlements of Gifford and Newland serve as local hubs, connected by a network of light-duty and unimproved roads.

Genealogists and local historians will find value in the specific placement of community landmarks such as Oak Grove Ch and its adjacent Oak Grove Cem. Farther west, the Prater Cem sits near the Oliver Ditch. The presence of a Sandpit in Walker Township suggests small-scale local industry, while the fine red dashed lines indicate the specific fence and field lines that shaped the rural property boundaries of the era.