1903 Map of West Canada Lakes

About this map

The South Branch Moose River cuts through a high-elevation plateau defined by complex water systems and deep woods at the turn of the century. This 1898 survey captures the intricate hydrology of Hamilton County, where numerous water bodies like Brooktrout Lake and the Twin Lakes feed into larger drainage systems. The landscape is marked by a mix of established outposts and remote landforms, including the flat expanse known as The Plains near Kenwells. Named camps such as Pillsbury Lake Camp and Millers Camp suggest a seasonal economy or early sporting culture established before the era of widespread automobile access. The topography is dominated by peaks like Wakely Mt. and West Canada Mt., which hem in the headwaters of the Indian River and the West Canada Lake basin, providing a record of the region's wilderness character during the early years of New York's forest preservation efforts.