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1959 Map of Goshen

Name: 1959 Topographic Map of Goshen
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1974
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1974

About this map

The Elkhart River winds through this 1950s landscape, serving as a central artery for the growing city of Goshen and its surrounding rural townships. The map illustrates the city’s mid-century footprint, including the campus of Goshen College and the County Fairgrounds. To the south, the river is harnessed at the Goshen Dam Pond, while a legacy of early industry remains visible through the Hydraulic Canal near Benton.

Genealogists and local historians will find a wealth of family-named landmarks and early burial grounds, such as the Studebaker Cem, Morris Cem, and Violett Cem. Smaller settlements like Waterford Mills, Bainter Town, and New Paris are clearly defined, showing their relationship to the New York Central and Wabash railroads. The expanse of the Elkhart Prairie remains dotted with traditional one-room school locations like Rensberger Sch and Model Sch, marking the transition from agricultural roots to modern municipal development.