1955 Map of Manheim

About this map

Manheim serves as a central hub in this mid-century portrait of the Pennsylvania Dutch Country, where the borough's dense grid contrasts with the sprawling agricultural landscape of Penn and Rapho townships. The map documents a deeply rooted rural community, evidenced by numerous family-named landmarks and local institutions like Hernley Ch and Gantzs Cem. To the north, the terrain rises into the Cornwall Hills, where the Pennsylvania Turnpike cuts through State Game Lands No 156 near the recreational enclave of Mount Gretna. The drainage patterns of Chickies Creek and its many branches like Back Run dictate the placement of early settlements and junctions. Researchers will find significant genealogical value in the distribution of rural meeting houses and burial grounds, such as East Fairview Ch and Earhart Cem, which represent the core of local township history.