1974 Map of Madison Lake

About this map

The town of Madison Lake sits at the heart of this mid-1970s lake country landscape, positioned between its namesake Madison Lake and the smaller Duck Lake. The region is defined by an intricate network of water bodies, including Ballantyne Lake, Gilfillin Lake, and the eastern reaches of Lake Washington. This survey captures the area as the Chicago and North Western railroad still cut through the southern townships of LeRay and Janesville, while remnants of transportation history are visible in the Old RR Grade passing north of town. Rural life centers around small settlements like Marysburg to the north and Smiths Mill in the southeast, with local landmarks such as Calvary Cem and various public access points providing specific points of interest for local historians. In the southwest, the Le Sueur River carves a winding path toward the Minnesota River valley, contrasting with the still waters and wetlands of the State Wildlife Management Area.