1916 Map of Oswegatchie

About this map

The Oswegatchie River and its multiple branches define the rugged industrial and recreational landscape of this St. Lawrence County region. In the early 20th century, the area was a hub of resource extraction and early hydro-electrification, anchored by Benson Mines and the Browns Fall Power Plant. The settlement of Star Lake appears as a focal point for local life, while smaller hamlets like Jayville, Fine, and Aldrich are connected by a network of logging roads and rail spurs. The map documents a transition from active timbering and mining to the establishment of the Adirondack Park, evidenced by numerous remote outposts such as Streeter Camp, Bassett Camp, and Yousey Camp. Education was highly localized, with several district facilities like White School, Red School, and Manchester School serving the dispersed population of Fine, Clifton, and Pitcairn townships.