1950 Map of Roscommon North

About this map

The South Branch Au Sable River meanders through a landscape transitioning between timber and recreational use at the mid-century. While Roscommon serves as the primary hub along the New York Central railroad, much of the surrounding territory is governed by the Huron National Forest and Higgins Lake State Forest. This era in Crawford and Roscommon Counties is marked by a clear turn toward conservation and outdoorsmanship, evidenced by the Bay City Hunting and Fishing Club and several lodges like Bell Top Lodge. Traces of the region's industrial past and present appear at the Northern Block and Supply Company and scattered Sawmill sites. Locally significant landmarks such as Chase Bridge and the Pioneer Cemetery provide grounding for genealogists tracing families in the area before more modern developments altered these woods.