1948 Map of Sterling

About this map

The Rock River dominates this mid-century landscape, providing a geographical anchor for the twin industrial hubs of Sterling and Rock Falls. In the years following World War II, the area exhibits a dense network of rural infrastructure, with small crossroads such as Penrose and Prairieville serving the surrounding agricultural townships. The transportation framework is clearly defined by the Chicago and Northwestern and the Chicago Burlington and Quincy railroads, which facilitated the movement of goods through the Rock River Valley.