1946 Map of Gilman

About this map

The Illinois Central corridor defines the western half of this mid-1940s landscape, connecting the agricultural hubs of Gilman, Danforth, Ashkum, Clifton, and Chebanse. These settlements, spaced at regular intervals along the rail line, reflect the high-density rural infrastructure of the era, where every few miles supported a local post office or station. To the east, the Iroquois River meanders through the terrain, crossed by several named landmarks including Perry Bridge and Fiddler Bridge. The abundance of one-room schoolhouses, such as College Corner Sch and Old Burg Sch, alongside family-named burial grounds like Wenger Cem and Bardon Cem, provides a detailed view of the community structure before mid-century consolidation. The intersection of the Toledo Peoria and Western at Gilman highlights the town's importance as a regional transportation junction.