1954 Map of New Athens East

About this map

The Kaskaskia River snakes through the center of this southern Illinois landscape, its tight meanders defining the agricultural and industrial character of the mid-20th century. Extensive Strip Mine operations dominate the terrain south of New Athens, where the ground is transformed by large-scale excavation efforts typical of the region's coal industry during this era. The Illinois Central railroad cuts a diagonal path through the quadrangle, serving as the primary commercial artery for the settlements of Lenzburg and Marissa.