1960 Map of Shirley

About this map

Markleville and Shirley anchor this agricultural region during a period of steady Midwestern development where the borders of Madison, Henry, and Hancock counties converge. The local economy and social life are structured around the New York Central railroad corridor, which links the towns of Wilkinson and Kennard. The landscape is defined by an intricate network of drainage and creek systems, including Fall Creek, Sugar Creek, and numerous agricultural ditches like the Van Meter Ditch and Pierce Ditch, reflecting the intensive land management required for the area's corn and grain production.