1953 Map of Symerton

About this map

The Joliet Arsenal dominates the northern landscape of this mid-century survey, its expansive industrial and military footprint defined by the Government Railroad. This facility contrasts with the surrounding agricultural townships of Florence and Wesley, where rural life is anchored by landmarks like the Bell Sch and the Star Grove Cem. The settlement of Symerton sits at the heart of the quadrangle, while to the south, the communities of Ritchie and Ritchie Sta follow the path of Forked Creek. Transportation is a key theme, tracing the transition from the Old Norfolk and Western rail corridor to the emerging network of modern infrastructure represented by the purple-coded Pipeline revisions. Genealogists will find value in the specific locations of the Chicago Road Cem and local schoolhouses that served these tight-knit farming communities.