1961 Map of Sturgis

About this map

Sturgis serves as the industrial and social hub of this borderland region, where the Conrail rail line intersects a dense network of city streets like Chicago Rd and Lafayette St. The map captures a transition era for the city, showing the expansion of the Kirsch Municipal Airport and a centralized educational system featuring the Jr High Sch, Wenzel St Sch, and Jerolene St Sch. Just south of the municipal limits, the Michigan Indiana border is clearly defined, with the Indiana Toll Road and the Howe-Lagrange Tollgate marking the gateway into the neighboring state. The surrounding landscape in Sherman and Burr Oak townships is defined by glacial kettle lakes, including Minnewaukan Lake, Perrin Lake, and Thompson Lake, providing a clear record of the area's hydrology before later development. Local heritage is preserved through landmarks like Oak Lawn Cemetery, Tobey Cem, and the Lighthouse Ch.