1948 Map of Orange

About this map

The Millers River corridor anchors this 1948 survey, where the Boston and Maine railroad tracks parallel the Mohawk Trail through the industrial heart of Orange. While the northern half of the sheet is defined by the dense settlement patterns of the river valley, the southern half reveals the dramatic transformation of the landscape following the creation of the Quabbin Reservoir. The presence of the Quabbin Res shoreline near New Salem indicates the loss of earlier valley settlements to the water, leaving behind upland hamlets like North New Salem and Morse Village. Local landmarks such as the CCC Camp in Erving and The Bears Den reflect the area's transition into a center for conservation and recreation. Genealogists will find interest in the scattered burial grounds and rural hubs like South Athol and Wendell Depot.