2018 Map of Gridley

About this map

The Mackinaw River carves a winding path across the center of this Central Illinois landscape, marking the transition between the agricultural plains of Woodford Co and McLean County. The river valley is a distinct departure from the rectilinear grid of the surrounding prairie, where small settlements like El Paso and Gridley are situated along primary corridors. To the south, the expansion of the Lake Bloomington reservoir dominates the drainage of Money Creek, creating an irregular shoreline that contrasts with the township and range section lines. Genealogists and local historians can find several established burial grounds, including the El Paso Cem at the western edge and the Wilcox-Coon Cem near the lake. The map also captures the smaller crossroads of Enright and Kappa, providing a look at the rural infrastructure that supports the region's long-standing farming economy.