Rare Old Map of Lake Zurich, Illinois by USGS, 1935: Barrington, Elgin & Schaumburg
Restored in our London workshop from the original 1958 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.
Restored in London • Printed and framed in Australia
Restored from the original 1958 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
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Gift message & custom finish
If you want to add a gift message, or a finish (jigsaw, aluminium board, etc.) that is not available here, please request it in the "order note" when you check out.
Every order is custom made, so if you need the size adjusted slightly, or printed on an unusual material, just let us know. We've done thousands of custom orders over the years, so there's (almost) nothing we can't manage.
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Titled “Barrington,” this United States Geological Survey topographical map presents the Lake Zurich and Barrington region of northeastern Illinois as surveyed in...
Continue readingTitled “Barrington,” this United States Geological Survey topographical map presents the Lake Zurich and Barrington region of northeastern Illinois as surveyed in 1935 and published with a 1958 imprint. At a scale of 1:62,500, it captures a landscape poised between rural quiet and suburban transformation, where lakes, wooded tracts, railways, and roads structure the terrain. Lake Zurich appears as a defining feature, its shoreline set amid a mosaic of settlements, farm country, and recreational land. The map’s classic USGS design uses contour lines, hydrographic detail, and carefully differentiated color to reveal both the visible and underlying character of the region. It is a portrait of an Illinois landscape before the full force of postwar metropolitan expansion reshaped its fields, villages, and lakefront communities.
The United States Geological Survey, founded in 1879, became the nation’s preeminent authority in mapping terrain, water systems, mineral resources, and the physical framework of American settlement. Its quadrangle maps were practical instruments for engineers, planners, scientists, soldiers, motorists, and local governments, but they also possess a quiet aesthetic discipline. In “Barrington,” the USGS method is evident in the balance between exact measurement and visual clarity: every contour suggests slope and drainage, every road and railway implies patterns of movement and commerce. The map belongs to a period when topographic mapping was essential to understanding rapidly changing counties at the edges of large cities. Here, the agency’s cartographic rigor preserves the geography of northwestern Cook County and southern Lake County with understated elegance.
Lake Zurich anchors the map both visually and historically. Long valued for its scenic waters, the village and surrounding lake country became attractive to Chicago-area residents seeking recreation, summer homes, and eventually permanent suburban life. Nearby communities such as Barrington, Deer Park, Long Grove, Hawthorn Woods, and Tower Lakes evoke a district of rolling ground, wooded lanes, and small lakes that contrasted sharply with the denser urban fabric to the southeast. The map also extends toward Palatine, Schaumburg, and Elgin, places that would later become emblematic of suburban growth. In 1935, however, much of this territory still retained an open, semi-rural character. The mapped roads, railways, and settlement clusters hint at the framework from which later development would emerge.
The topographic character of the sheet is especially compelling. Contour lines trace subtle hills, valleys, and drainage patterns across a glaciated Illinois landscape shaped by ancient ice and meltwater. Lakes and wetlands punctuate the terrain, while rivers and streams show how water moved through the region before modern drainage, subdivision, and roadbuilding altered many natural systems. The map’s treatment of vegetation and water gives the sheet a refined visual rhythm, with wooded areas, parks, and open land distinguished from the surrounding settlement grid. Unlike a purely political or road map, “Barrington” invites the eye to read the land itself: the rise behind a village, the low ground near a stream, the relationship between lake basins, railway corridors, and early roads.
As a historical document, “Barrington” records a decisive moment in the evolution of the Chicago metropolitan fringe. The 1930s brought shifting land use, improved transportation, and gradual population growth, while the 1958 imprint places the map within the postwar era, when suburban expansion was accelerating dramatically. Comparing the mapped landscape with the present reveals how profoundly places such as Schaumburg, Palatine, and Lake Zurich would be transformed by highways, housing developments, commercial centers, and changing patterns of commuting. Yet the map preserves an earlier geography of village centers, rail connections, rural roads, lakeside recreation, and wooded retreats. It is both an instrument of precise measurement and a richly evocative record of northern Illinois on the threshold of modern suburbanization.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Lake Zurich
- Barrington
- Elgin
- Schaumburg
- Palatine
- Deer Park
- Long Grove
- Hawthorn Woods
- Tower Lakes
- Cook County
- Lake County
- Several unnamed lakes and rivers
- Wooded areas and parks
- Main roads and railways traversing the region
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
- Historical 1:62,500 topographical map showing Lake Zurich, Illinois and the surrounding area.
- Dated 1935, with a 1958 imprint.
- Features a classic topographical style with contour lines illustrating elevation and terrain.
- Uses color to distinguish vegetation and water bodies.
- Shows varying elevations, including hills and valleys.
- Includes detailed representations of lakes and rivers.
- Reflects 1930s regional development, changing land use, and population growth.
- Provides historical insight into a landscape that has changed significantly since publication.
Looking for a particular place? Review the detailed images to confirm that the town, landmark or feature you have in mind appears on the map. If you are unsure, ask our workshop to check before you order.
Detailed maps are especially rewarding at larger sizes, where names, boundaries and decorative features have more room to be appreciated. Use the close-up preview and size guide to choose the right scale for your wall.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.
Where personalisation is available, you can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. See personalised map examples.
Every piece is printed to museum-grade archival standards using fade-resistant pigment inks on acid-free matte paper. Choose an unframed map print, framed map or canvas using the finish options above. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
With its rich detail and strong sense of place, this map makes a considered gift for a new home, anniversary, retirement or anyone with a personal connection to the area shown. Still deciding? Explore our collection of rare old and vintage maps to discover another place, period or style.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Titled “Barrington,” this United States Geological Survey topographical map presents the Lake Zurich and Barrington region of northeastern Illinois as surveyed in 1935 and published with a 1958 imprint. At a scale of 1:62,500, it captures a landscape poised between rural quiet and suburban transformation, where lakes, wooded tracts, railways, and roads structure the terrain. Lake Zurich appears as a defining feature, its shoreline set amid a mosaic of settlements, farm country, and recreational land. The map’s classic USGS design uses contour lines, hydrographic detail, and carefully differentiated color to reveal both the visible and underlying character of the region. It is a portrait of an Illinois landscape before the full force of postwar metropolitan expansion reshaped its fields, villages, and lakefront communities.
The United States Geological Survey, founded in 1879, became the nation’s preeminent authority in mapping terrain, water systems, mineral resources, and the physical framework of American settlement. Its quadrangle maps were practical instruments for engineers, planners, scientists, soldiers, motorists, and local governments, but they also possess a quiet aesthetic discipline. In “Barrington,” the USGS method is evident in the balance between exact measurement and visual clarity: every contour suggests slope and drainage, every road and railway implies patterns of movement and commerce. The map belongs to a period when topographic mapping was essential to understanding rapidly changing counties at the edges of large cities. Here, the agency’s cartographic rigor preserves the geography of northwestern Cook County and southern Lake County with understated elegance.
Lake Zurich anchors the map both visually and historically. Long valued for its scenic waters, the village and surrounding lake country became attractive to Chicago-area residents seeking recreation, summer homes, and eventually permanent suburban life. Nearby communities such as Barrington, Deer Park, Long Grove, Hawthorn Woods, and Tower Lakes evoke a district of rolling ground, wooded lanes, and small lakes that contrasted sharply with the denser urban fabric to the southeast. The map also extends toward Palatine, Schaumburg, and Elgin, places that would later become emblematic of suburban growth. In 1935, however, much of this territory still retained an open, semi-rural character. The mapped roads, railways, and settlement clusters hint at the framework from which later development would emerge.
The topographic character of the sheet is especially compelling. Contour lines trace subtle hills, valleys, and drainage patterns across a glaciated Illinois landscape shaped by ancient ice and meltwater. Lakes and wetlands punctuate the terrain, while rivers and streams show how water moved through the region before modern drainage, subdivision, and roadbuilding altered many natural systems. The map’s treatment of vegetation and water gives the sheet a refined visual rhythm, with wooded areas, parks, and open land distinguished from the surrounding settlement grid. Unlike a purely political or road map, “Barrington” invites the eye to read the land itself: the rise behind a village, the low ground near a stream, the relationship between lake basins, railway corridors, and early roads.
As a historical document, “Barrington” records a decisive moment in the evolution of the Chicago metropolitan fringe. The 1930s brought shifting land use, improved transportation, and gradual population growth, while the 1958 imprint places the map within the postwar era, when suburban expansion was accelerating dramatically. Comparing the mapped landscape with the present reveals how profoundly places such as Schaumburg, Palatine, and Lake Zurich would be transformed by highways, housing developments, commercial centers, and changing patterns of commuting. Yet the map preserves an earlier geography of village centers, rail connections, rural roads, lakeside recreation, and wooded retreats. It is both an instrument of precise measurement and a richly evocative record of northern Illinois on the threshold of modern suburbanization.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Lake Zurich
- Barrington
- Elgin
- Schaumburg
- Palatine
- Deer Park
- Long Grove
- Hawthorn Woods
- Tower Lakes
- Cook County
- Lake County
- Several unnamed lakes and rivers
- Wooded areas and parks
- Main roads and railways traversing the region
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
- Historical 1:62,500 topographical map showing Lake Zurich, Illinois and the surrounding area.
- Dated 1935, with a 1958 imprint.
- Features a classic topographical style with contour lines illustrating elevation and terrain.
- Uses color to distinguish vegetation and water bodies.
- Shows varying elevations, including hills and valleys.
- Includes detailed representations of lakes and rivers.
- Reflects 1930s regional development, changing land use, and population growth.
- Provides historical insight into a landscape that has changed significantly since publication.
Looking for a particular place? Review the detailed images to confirm that the town, landmark or feature you have in mind appears on the map. If you are unsure, ask our workshop to check before you order.
Detailed maps are especially rewarding at larger sizes, where names, boundaries and decorative features have more room to be appreciated. Use the close-up preview and size guide to choose the right scale for your wall.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.
Where personalisation is available, you can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. See personalised map examples.
Every piece is printed to museum-grade archival standards using fade-resistant pigment inks on acid-free matte paper. Choose an unframed map print, framed map or canvas using the finish options above. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
With its rich detail and strong sense of place, this map makes a considered gift for a new home, anniversary, retirement or anyone with a personal connection to the area shown. Still deciding? Explore our collection of rare old and vintage maps to discover another place, period or style.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Many of our maps and art prints are chosen as thoughtful gifts for homes, offices, studies and meaningful places.
Choose a framed option for the easiest ready-to-hang gift, or choose an unframed print if the recipient may prefer to select their own frame.
We make orders locally in 24 countries around the world, so gifts can often be produced close to the recipient. This helps them arrive faster, travel more safely, and avoid customs or import duty surprises.
- We can deliver directly to the recipient
- Framed pieces arrive ready to hang
- Unframed prints are carefully packed in a strong protective tube
- Almost every order is made locally, for faster, safer gifting
- 90-day returns give the recipient time to decide
If you are not sure what to choose, please contact us. We can help you pick the right map, size, finish or delivery option.
Most orders are made locally and delivered in around 2–3 working days, depending on the product, size and destination.
We print and frame maps and artwork in 24 countries around the world, so your order is usually made close to you or your recipient. That means faster delivery, less time in transit, and no customs or import duty surprises.
Personalised and customised pieces usually take an extra 1–2 working days, because we prepare your design and send it to you for approval before printing.
Very large framed orders can take a little longer, as they need extra care in production and delivery.
Every order is carefully packaged: unframed prints are sent in a strong protective tube, while framed pieces are securely packed with protective materials around the frame.
If you need your order by a particular date, please contact us before ordering. We’ll check the best production route and delivery option for your location.
Express delivery is available at checkout for most countries. Next-day delivery is available in the UK, US, Singapore and the UAE.
Your order is covered by our 90-day returns policy and 10-year guarantee.
Our standard frame is a gallery-style black ash hardwood frame, with a simple, modern look. It is approximately 20mm (0.8in) wide. You can also view some lovely customer photos of framed maps and art.
We use super-clear acrylic glazing, also known as Perspex or Acrylite, instead of traditional glass. It is lighter, safer, and has lower reflectivity, giving the artwork a clearer, cleaner appearance.
Six standard frame colours are available at no extra cost: black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white, and antique gold. Custom framing and mounting/matting is also available for customers looking for something more specific.
Most maps, art prints, and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced wooden box frame, and then float the piece within a wooden outer frame. The finished result is beautifully presented, with no glazing between you and the artwork.
All frames are supplied ready to hang, with either string or brackets fitted to the back. Very large frames will include heavy-duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
We can also supply old maps and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag, and other materials.
If you would prefer to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read our size guide before ordering.
We work with interior designers, hospitality businesses, property professionals, offices and corporate buyers on individual pieces and larger coordinated projects.
This map can be adapted for a particular wall, room or project, and our workshop can help coordinate the dimensions, material and framing before production.
- Exact, oversized and made-to-measure dimensions
- Custom framing, mounting and alternative materials
- Coordinated pieces for several rooms or locations
- Map personalisation, to mark important locations or add extra details
- Map and framing guidance from our workshop
- Local production for projects around the world
Every Unique Maps piece begins with an authentic cartographic source or an original design from our London studio.
For our historic maps, we source rare originals from libraries, archives, auction houses and private collections around the world. We carefully restore each map for print—repairing age-related damage, balancing colour and improving clarity while preserving its original detail, texture and character.
Once restored, the map is prepared for your chosen size and finish. Your piece is then printed and, where selected, framed close to its delivery destination.
Our map prints use acid-free 200gsm archival matte paper and fade-resistant pigment inks, creating a rich, non-glossy finish designed to last. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
Canvas, cotton-rag and other specialist presentations are also available. Learn more about our materials and finishes.
Personalising your map
You can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. For personalised designs, we send a proof before printing and you can request changes before approval.
For more complex bespoke commissions, contact our design team.
Original or Aged
Choose Original for true-to-source colour, or Aged for a warmer, richer antique character created with our specialist ageing process. See examples of our Aged maps.
We’ve been restoring and producing maps and art prints since 1984, and we stand behind every piece.
Every order is covered by our 10-year guarantee and damage-free delivery guarantee. If your piece arrives damaged, we’ll replace or remake it free of charge. If anything else isn’t right, contact our workshop team and we’ll put it right promptly.
See our returns and refund policy for full details.
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