1967 Map of Benton

About this map

The Hiwassee River and Ocoee River define the landscape of central Polk County, where the valley floor transitions into the rising slopes of Chilhowee Mountain. This 1967 survey captures the area as it appeared before mid-century changes fully modernized the rural infrastructure, showing a dense network of local landmarks such as Nancy Ward Cem and Polk County High School in Benton. The rail-and-river economy is evident in the path of the Louisville and Nashville railroad and the various landings and crossings like Benton Station. Numerous country churches and cemeteries, including Baker Chapel Cem and Union Grove Ch, are scattered throughout the agricultural bottomlands of Boyd Bottoms and the surrounding Red Hills. Historic travel routes like the Copper Road and Benton Pike connect these small communities to the larger region.