1954 Map of Wilmington

About this map

The Kankakee River and Des Plaines River converge in this mid-century landscape, a region defined by its industrial waterways and extensive rail network. The historical Illinois and Michigan Canal and the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal run parallel in the north, illustrating the evolution of Illinois's water transport. Near Wilmington, the presence of the Soldiers Widows Home and several local schools like Offerman Sch and Eaton Sch mark the social fabric of the day. To the south and west, the terrain shifts toward heavy industry, where Strip Mines, Strip Mine pits, and Mine Dumps dominate the area around Braidwood and Diamond. This survey provides a clear look at the Old Indian Boundary line cutting through Florence and Wilton townships, while cemeteries such as Maple Hill Cem and Bohemian Cem offer valuable points of interest for genealogists.