1978 Map of Manning SE

About this map

The West Nishnabotna River and its major tributaries dictate the landscape of this rural Western Iowa intersection in the late 1970s. Spanning the junction of Carroll, Audubon, Shelby, and Crawford counties, the map illustrates a highly organized township system, including portions of Lincoln, Jefferson, Douglas, and Polk. The northwestern corner is defined by the Chicago and North Western rail line as it follows the river valley, a classic example of early Iowa transit corridors. Rural social centers are clearly marked, such as Trinity Ch and the Township Cem in Lincoln Township. The hydrology of the area is particularly detailed, tracing the winding paths of Long Branch, the East Branch West Nishnabotna River, and Lone Willow Creek across the agricultural grid.