1953 Map of Silvis

About this map

The Mississippi River serves as the central artery of this industrial and residential landscape, separating Scott and Rock Island Counties at the heart of the Quad Cities area. Along the Illinois bank, the extensive grounds of the East Moline State Hospital and its associated State Hospital Cemetery occupy a prominent position near Hampton. The river's reach is defined by complex engineering and natural landforms, including Lock and Dam No 14, the Le Claire Canal, and the large Campbells Island. Heavy industry is a visible driver of growth during this era, evidenced by the Aluminum plant and the Riverside Power Plant on the Iowa side. This mid-century survey, updated in the 1970s, documents the expansion of Silvis, East Moline, and Bettendorf as residential developments and infrastructure like Interstate 80 begin to reshape the Mississippi's historic riverfront and bluffs.