1990 Map of Shutesbury

About this map

The Quabbin Reservoir dominates the eastern half of this 1990 survey, its waters surrounding former hilltops now known as Mount Zion, Carrick Island, and Stevens Island. This landscape reflects the massive mid-century transformation of the Swift River Valley, which submerged several towns to create the reservoir. On the remaining dry ground, the map reveals a network of upland villages and wooded ridges, including Shutesbury, Cooleyville, and North Prescott. Much of the terrain is preserved within the Shutesbury State Forest and the Federated Womens Club State Forest, while the western edge transitions toward the higher elevations of Brushy Mountain and Mt Orient. The presence of numerous cemeteries and churches near small settlements like Locks Village provides essential touchpoints for genealogists tracing families in these rural hill towns before modern development.