1952 Map of Lewis

About this map

Extensive surface mining operations dominate the landscape between Blackhawk and Lewis in this early 1950s survey of the Vigo and Sullivan County border. Numerous areas marked as Strip Mine and an active Oil Field illustrate the region's industrial character, contrasting with the many rural institutions that served its residents. Local family histories are preserved through numerous small burial grounds, including the Armstrong Cem, Donham Cem, and Ruggles Cem, often located near crossroads or country churches like Fletcher Chapel and Mt Olive Ch. The drainage patterns of Busserton Creek and Sponge Creek are interrupted by man-made features like Lee Lake and Hickory Grove Pond, while the Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific railroad provided the vital transport link for the area's coal and agricultural production.