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1958 Map of Otis

Name: 1958 Topographic Map of Otis
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1960
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1960

About this map

Otis Reservoir dominates the southeastern Berkshire landscape, its intricate shoreline defined by Southwest Bay, Southeast Bay, and Dismal Bay. This 1958 revision shows the area as a significant recreation and water resource hub, with the sprawling Otis State Forest and Tolland State Forest flanking the water bodies. The settlement pattern clusters around historical junctions like Otis, East Otis, and the uniquely named Algerie Four Corners.

Evidence of earlier infrastructure is visible through the Old Railroad Grade snaking through the northern hills, contrasting with the modern path of the Massachusetts Turnpike. The terrain is marked by numerous family-named landmarks and water features, from Benton Pond and White Lily Pond to the high vantage point of the Tolland Lookout Tower. For genealogists, the map preserves local reference points such as Norton Cem and scattered hill settlements like Cold Spring.