1943 Map of Towanda

About this map

The Susquehanna River carves a dominant path through this 1943 survey of Bradford County, defining the growth and transit patterns of Towanda and its surroundings during the Second World War. The river valley serves as the primary artery for the Lehigh Valley railroad and U.S. Highway 6, which connect the industrial hub of Towanda to northern settlements like Ulster and East Athens. Away from the river, the landscape transitions into a network of upland farming townships, including Windham and Orwell, where the social fabric of the era is clearly visible through dozens of small country schools. Numerous rural institutions, such as Randolph Sch and Cebu Sch, are scattered across the hills, indicating a highly localized education system before mid-century consolidation. The presence of the Towanda Airport near the river bend and the small Wesauking Lake further characterize this mix of valley commerce and upland agriculture.