1955 Map of South Onondaga

About this map

Syracuse expands southward toward the Indian Reservation in this mid-century topographic survey, showing a landscape defined by the winding course of Onondaga Creek. The valley floor features significant infrastructure, including the Onondaga Creek Flood Control Dam and the Radio Transmitting Towers (WSYR) near Nedrow. High ground to the west is dotted with crossroads hamlets like Cedarvale, South Onondaga, and Nichols Corners, while the eastern hills rise toward Lafayette and the steep terrain of Webb Hollow Creek. The map documents a period of suburban transition, where long-established sites like Onondaga Castle and rural landmarks such as Baileys Settlement and Maple Grove coexist with a developing city periphery. Notable institutional footprints include the State College Experimental Station and the Onondaga Central Sch, illustrating the intersection of education, agriculture, and civic planning in Onondaga County.