1950 Map of Montour Falls

About this map

Montour Falls sits at the head of the Catharine Valley, where steep glacial troughs meet the southern tip of Seneca Lake. This area was a critical nexus for early New York transportation, featuring the Barge Canal and the Conrail line tracing the valley floor. The map captures the dramatic elevation changes of the Finger Lakes region, marked by numerous cataracts including Shequaga Falls and Aunt Sarahs Falls. Local industry and education are represented by St Johns Seminary and several neighborhood schools like School No 9 and School No 1. Cultural and historical markers are scattered throughout the hills, from Havana Glen to the small upland settlement of Catharine. This survey reflects the mid-century landscape of Schuyler Co and Chemung Co just before modern expansion began to alter these valley corridors.