1953 Map of Paradox Lake

About this map

The eastern Adirondack wilderness of Essex Co is defined by a dense network of water bodies and peaks as it appeared in the mid-1950s. Paradox Lake and Eagle Lake dominate the central landscape, while the southern reaches feature the high elevation of Pharaoh Mountain topped with a Lookout Tower. Small settlements like Ironville, Chilson, and the hamlet of Paradox are connected by the early alignments of N.Y. 9 and N.Y. 73, alongside the industrial presence of a Sawmill and numerous Inactive Mines. Local religious life is anchored by St Nicholas Chapel and the Antwine Chapel, tucked away near Crane Pond. The map reveals a land utilized for both its natural resources and remote character, from the Graphite district in the south to the quiet reaches of Little Canada and the Desolate Swamp.