1999 Map of Kirksville

About this map

Shelbyville Lake dominates the central landscape of this 1999 survey, where the dammed waters of the Kaskaskia River and Okaw River have transformed the former river bottoms. The map documents a blend of recreation and conservation, featuring large tracts such as the West Okaw River State Fish and Wildlife Management Area, Wolf Creek State Park, and Eagle Creek State Park. Despite the expansion of the reservoir, the surrounding uplands maintain their agricultural character, punctuated by small settlements like Kirksville and Dunn. Genealogical interest is found in the numerous rural burial grounds preserved across the townships, including Thomason Cem, Hampton Cem, and Wright Cem. A notable industrial remnant is identified at the Coal Shaft Bridge, indicating the area's history of resource extraction near the river banks before the inundation of the lake.