1957 Map of Wilber

About this map

The Big Blue River meanders through this Saline County landscape, anchoring the settlements of Wilber and De Witt during a period of mid-century growth. This 1957 survey, updated with 1978 aerial revisions, highlights the rail-dependent economy of the region, where the Chicago Burlington and Quincy and the Chicago Rock Island and Pacific railroads intersect near the river's path. The map reveals a dense network of rural community landmarks, including the Czech Slovansky Cem and several numbered schoolhouses like School No 5 and School No 7. The presence of a Wilber Municipal Landing Field and a separate Landing Strip near the river indicates the local importance of small-scale aviation. Geologic extraction is noted through several sites, including a Gravel Pit along the riverbanks, while agricultural townships like Clatonia and Grant define the surrounding plains.