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1940 Map of Noel

Name: 1940 Topographic Map of Noel
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1955
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1955

About this map

Noel and the surrounding southwest Missouri landscape are defined by the winding course of the Elk River and Sugar Creek just before the Second World War. The region shows a distinct pattern of valley floor settlements and high-ridge homesteads, connected by the Kansas City Southern railroad and Highway 71. The map documents a rural society served by numerous small schoolhouses like Puckett Sch and Banner Sch, alongside community anchors such as Christian Ch and Mt Zion Ch.

The terrain is marked by significant geological features, including the Bluff Dwellers Cave and Bear Cavern, which point to the area's early development as a destination for travelers. Settlements such as Ginger Blue and Havenhurst sit along the riverbanks, while old river crossings at Deep Ford and Poole Ford reflect a transportation network transitioning from horse-and-wagon paths to motor roads. To the south, the Arkansas border looms near Jane and the prominent Polk Mtn.