1901 Map of Watkins

About this map

Seneca Lake dominates this Finger Lakes landscape, where deep glacial gorges and steep slopes meet the southern shore. The map illustrates a dense transportation network during a peak period of rail dominance, featuring the New York Central and Hudson River R. R. and the Lehigh Valley R. R. skirting the lake's edges. At the southern tip of the lake, the village of Watkins and nearby Montour Falls serve as key hubs where Catharine Creek flows through the valley floor. Steep-walled natural features like Watkins Glen and Big Hollow Run characterize the terrain, while upland settlements such as Reading Center and Burdett are connected by local roads and an Electric R. R. line. For genealogists, the map preserves the locations of early post offices like Barnes P. O. and Chambers P. O., which were vital links for the rural communities of Dix and Hector.