1967 Map of Olmsted

About this map

The Ohio River dominates this landscape where Illinois and Kentucky meet, serving as both a state boundary and a vital artery for the region's mid-century commerce. Near Olmsted, the river's navigational importance is marked by Lock and Dam No 53 and historic river access points like Caledonia Landing. On the Illinois side, the New York Central railroad parallels the river through the settlements of Grand Chain and Levings, while the Kentucky shoreline opens into the vast Oscar Bottoms. This low-lying area is characterized by an intricate network of wetlands, including Shelby Lake, Mud Lake, and Goose Pond, much of which is preserved within the Ballard State Waterfowl Management Area. Numerous small family and community burial grounds, such as Masonic Cem and Lyerly Cem, are scattered throughout the agricultural uplands, providing a detailed record of local genealogy.