S.E. divided up the first 100 years of Marion, Illinois history and created maps for each decade of growth showing the incorporated limits for each period of time.
From the original survey defining the city limits of Marion, Illinois in the fall of 1839 to the depression era years of the 1930’s we can now see how Marion trended in growth through time. Take note of the stagnation in growth that occured naturally in the 1860’s during the civil war and again during the 1930’s depression era. Also, note the incredible burst of growth experienced at the turn of the century with the corresponding growth in coal mines and industry.
None of this early growth, of course, would be possible without the installation of the early railroads like the north/south bound C & EI, Illinois Central or early Carbondale & Shawneetown RR that tied us to the Illinois Central line in Carbondale in 1872. The absence of which, could turn cities into ghost towns, as many did in Southern Illinois.
Much of this growth is due in no small part to the early “movers and shakers” of Marion, Illinois memorialized on the pages of this website.
My hat is off to Cliff Storme’s father for the creation of these wonderfully detailed maps.
(Posted by Sam Lattuca on 03/23/2013)