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1961 Map of Sturgis

Name: 1961 Topographic Map of Sturgis
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1962
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1962

About this map

The borderlands of southern Michigan and northern Indiana define this landscape, anchored by the growing hub of Sturgis. In the early 1960s, the city's residential and commercial grid reflects mid-century expansion, supported by the New York Central railroad and proximity to the newly constructed Indiana Toll Road just across the state line. Educational and religious life are deeply detailed, showing neighborhood institutions like Holy Angels Sch, Congress St Sch, and the Lighthouse Ch near the banks of the Fawn River.

Glacial lakes dot the surrounding townships, including the large Minnewaukan Lake and the recreational waters of Perrin Lake. For genealogists, the map preserves the locations of rural schoolhouses like Hiberlee Sch and Wall Sch, alongside local landmarks such as Oak Lawn Cemetery and the Kirsch Municipal Airport. This record of St Joseph and LaGrange counties captures a transition from traditional farming tracts to modern infrastructure.