1948 Map of Mill Creek

About this map

Shawnee National Forest dominates the central portion of this 1948 topographic study, where the rugged ridges of Southern Illinois meet the lowlands of Hogskin Bottoms. The Gulf Mobile and Ohio railroad serves as a vital corridor through the eastern edge, connecting the small settlements of Mill Creek, Elco, and Tamms. This era shows a landscape deeply rooted in rural community life, marked by numerous small schools such as Lylerle Sch, Gauble Sch, and Hazelwood School. The topography is defined by intricate drainage patterns like Clear Creek Ditch and family-named hollows, while prominent landmarks like the Bass Hill Lookout Tower provide vantage points over Dago Hill and Vick Hill. Genealogists will find a wealth of data in the many family and community burial grounds, including Honey Cem, McClure Cem, and Palmer Cem, often situated near remote churches like Pleasant Valley Ch.