1971 Map of Shirland

About this map

The Pecatonica River meanders sharply across this northern Illinois landscape, joined by the Sugar River and Raccoon Creek near the border of Rock County and Winnebago County. At this time in the early 1970s, the rural character of the region is defined by the small settlements of Shirland and Harrison, interconnected by a network of named country roads such as Boswell Road and Principal Meridian. This survey captures the transition of the local economy, where traditional extractive industries like the many scattered Quarries and Gravel Pits exist alongside newer recreational spaces like the Laona Forest Preserve. Genealogists and local historians can locate specific landmarks including the Boys Farm School, the Shirland Cem, and the Phillips Cem. The transit corridor is dominated by the Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific railroad, while small aviation facilities like the Smith Landing Strip suggest a reliance on private air travel for this agricultural community.