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1911 Map of Abingdon

Name: 1911 Topographic Map of Abingdon
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1921
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1921

About this map

Abingdon and Marion anchor this survey of the mountainous tri-state border region where Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina meet. The landscape is defined by the heavy presence of the Unaka National Forest and the parallel ridges of Walker Mountain and Iron Mountain. The Norfolk and Western Railway serves as a critical corridor through the valley, linking agricultural and industrial hubs like Saltville, known for its geology, and Glade Spring.

Local life at this time is centered around a network of country schools and churches, including the Rosedale School and Bethel Church. The map reveals a water-driven economy with numerous small-scale operations like Belfast Mills, Giesler Mill, and Loves Mill situated along the many forks of the Holston River. Researchers will find significant genealogical value in the placement of the County Farm and smaller settlements like Emory, Elk Garden, and Chilhowie.