1896 Map of Russell

About this map

The Saline River and Smoky Hill River cut distinct horizontal paths across this central Kansas landscape, defining the topography between the rolling plains of Paradise and the lowlands of Logan. Surveyed in the late 19th century, the map documents a critical period of settlement where the Union Pacific R. R. serves as the primary artery for towns like Russell, Bunker Hill, and Dorrance. To the south, the Missouri Pacific R. R. anchors a separate line of development through Hoisington and Claflin. Notable for genealogists is the presence of small, often fleeting post offices and community centers such as Maher-ville P.O., Dubuque, and Gere. The southern portion of the sheet reveals the unique wetland geography of Cheyenne Bottoms, situated just below the Russell Co. Barton Co. Boundary Line.