1961 Map of Atkins

About this map

Atkins sits at the northern edge of this Arkansas River valley landscape, serving as a hub for the Missouri Pacific railroad and U.S. Highway 64. The town's grid extends toward the prominent Gum Log Mountain and Carrion Crow Mountain to the north, while the southern terrain is dominated by the wide flats of Carden Bottom and the massive Petit Jean Mountain. This rugged highland is home to Petit Jean State Park, featuring a dense cluster of small recreation lakes such as Lake Abby and Lake Bailey, alongside landmarks like Cedar Falls. Between the mountains and the river, the landscape is dotted with rural institutions like Bells Chapel, Gold Hill Sch, and Darr Cem, illustrating the mid-century community structure of Pope County and Yell County. Significant infrastructure including the Spillway 319 at Lake Atkins and several rural landing strips highlight the era's water management and local aviation.