1923 Map of Lehigh

About this map

The Des Moines River carves a deep, winding valley through Webster County, creating a striking contrast between the flat upland prairies and the heavily dissected river bluffs. Along these bends, the industrial character of the early 1920s is evident in settlements like Clayworks, Coalville, and Gypsum, which were tied to the region's rich mineral deposits and brick-making history. The steep terrain of the valley provided a natural landscape for the establishment of Dolliver Memorial State Park, while nearby Wildcat Cave highlights the unique geological features of the river's path.