1913 Map of La Salle

About this map

Industrial hubs and coal-mining settlements define this landscape along the Illinois River at the height of the region's transport evolution. The twin cities of La Salle and Peru serve as the primary focus, where the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal parallels the river and a dense web of rail lines, including the Chicago Rock Island and Pacific RR. The area’s educational and religious roots are visible at St Bedes College, while the surrounding townships are dotted with family-named schools like the Aitkin School and Waltham School. To the south, the terrain shifts toward the dramatic bluffs of Deer Park and the burgeoning mining operations near Standard Taft PO and Cedar Point. This survey captures the complex transition from a canal-based economy to a heavy rail-and-industry network before the modern highway era reshaped the Illinois Valley.