1948 Map of Mendon

About this map

The Mississippi River creates a dynamic western boundary for this 1948 survey, where islands like Polly Island and Brownsville Island are separated from the Illinois mainland by channels such as Canton Chute and Flannigan Island Chute. The drainage of the lowlands is highly engineered, evidenced by the Rock and Ursa Creek Diversion Canal and several pumping stations near Indian Grave Lake. On the higher ground to the east, the landscape transitions into a dense network of early rural settlements and agricultural hubs, including Mendon, Ursa, and Lima. The survey captures an era of localized community life, recording numerous country schools like Indian Grave Sch and Brick Sch, alongside spiritual centers such as Mt Hebron Ch and Oak Valley Ch. Transportation is anchored by the Chicago Burlington and Quincy railroad, which parallels the river and connects the riverfront at Meyer to the inland prairies.