1980 Map of Pekin

About this map

The South Skunk River meanders across the northern reaches of this rural landscape, carving a wide valley protected in part by the South Skunk River State Wildlife Area. This agricultural corridor is defined by the intersection of four counties, where the small settlements of Pekin and Linby sit near the junction of Keokuk, Jefferson, and Wapello. Transportation history is visible in the landscape, contrasting the active Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific line with an Old Railroad Grade that cuts through the township of Jackson. Local heritage is anchored by landmarks such as Mt Zion Ch, the Pekin Community Sch, and the Van Orsdall Cem. Further west, the town of Martinsburg marks the transition into Steady Run township, while Quarries near Rock Creek point to the area's local resource extraction.