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1953 Map of Bethlehem

Name: 1953 Topographic Map of Bethlehem
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1955
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1955

About this map

The Ohio River carves a deep valley between Clark and Jefferson counties in Indiana and Trimble County in Kentucky, defining the character of this mid-century landscape. Small settlements and river landings like Bethlehem and Wises Landing serve as focal points for a rural economy centered on the river's path. The terrain is characterized by sharp ridges and deep creek hollows, including Rodgers Ridge and Dog Ridge, which separate the various drainage basins of Big Saluda Creek and Pattons Creek.

Genealogists will find a wealth of specific local landmarks, from rural sanctuaries like Elizabeth Ch and Bethel Ch to family-named burial sites such as Mahoney Cem and Turper Cem. The map illustrates a network of secondary roads connecting scattered farmsteads and small communities like Otto, Paynesville, and Mt Pleasant, reflecting a period of settled agricultural life before significant modern development altered the riverfront.