1908 Map of Wheaton

About this map

The West Branch Du Page River and East Branch Du Page River define the agricultural and suburban landscape of central DuPage County during this era of rapid transit-driven growth. Centered on the hub of Wheaton, the map illustrates a complex web of steam and electric lines, including the Chicago Great Western and the Aurora Elgin and Chicago Electric, which facilitated the expansion of commuter settlements like Glen Ellyn and Lombard. While larger towns show established street grids, the map also preserves smaller, potentially vanished locations and rail stops such as Gretna, Swift, and Meacham. Notable landmarks like St Johns Church and numerous cemeteries provide valuable points of reference for genealogists tracking family roots in townships like Bloomingdale and Milton. The transition from rural crossroads at Wayne Center to the developing town centers reflects the shifting economic character of the region just before mid-century modernization.