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1959 Map of Bessemer

Name: 1959 Topographic Map of Bessemer
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1991
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1991

About this map

Red Mountain and the ridgelines of Shades Mountain define the industrial and residential corridors of Jefferson County during a period of significant mid-century expansion. The map details the complex rail infrastructure supporting the local economy, including the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, Southern Railway, and the Birmingham Southern Railroad, which weave through the iron-rich terrain. Established communities like Old Jonesboro and Bessemer Homestead sit alongside newer developments, while institutional landmarks such as Miles Memorial College and the DeBardeleben Armory serve as anchors for the local population.

Industrial activity is evident in the numerous quarries, chert pits, and the Tipple Mine located near Muscoda. The landscape is a mix of dense urban grids in Bessemer and Hueytown contrasted with the drainage patterns of Valley Creek and Opossum Creek. Cultural and civic life is reflected in the numerous neighborhood schools like Westfield High Sch and several cemeteries, including Cedar Hill Cemetery and Highland Memorial Gardens.