1903 Map of Orwell

About this map

The Salmon River carves a significant path through the southern half of this landscape, punctuated by the dramatic Salmon Falls near Stillwater. This 1902-1903 survey captures the Tug Hill region's rural character at the start of the 20th century, where a network of small hamlets was established along the numerous creeks and brooks feeding the river system. Notable clusters of settlement include Redfield and Orwell, along with several smaller communities that have since changed, such as Littlejohn Settlement and Otto Mills. The terrain is defined by a series of drainages including Sandy Creek, Mad River, and Paddock Brook, illustrating a late-frontier economy likely tied to the timber and milling industries indicated by the mill-sites and bridges like Bennett Bridge. The map traces the county boundaries of Jefferson, Lewis, and Oswego, documenting the precise township limits of Boylston, Worth, and Lorraine during this era.