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1953 Map of Toolesboro

Name: 1953 Topographic Map of Toolesboro
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1958
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1958

About this map

The Mississippi River creates a dynamic boundary between Iowa and Illinois in the early 1950s, defining a landscape of complex waterways and island systems. Central to this map is the transition between the river and the expansive Lake Odessa, punctuated by features like Turkey Island and Otter Island. The presence of the New Boston Ferry and the Dismantled railroad indicates a period of shifting transportation modes as old river and rail dependencies evolved.

Social and agricultural life is anchored by local landmarks such as Mallory Cemetery and several rural schoolhouses, including Swan Lake School and Pin Oak School. Industry and conservation efforts coexist, shown through the Dam and Lock No 17 and the Upper Mississippi River Wildlife and Fish Refuge. The map also documents the vital drainage infrastructure of the era, such as the Muscatine Island Pumping Station and Bay Island Pumping Station.