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1936 Map of Big Ridge Park

Name: 1936 Topographic Map of Big Ridge Park
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1936
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1936

About this map

Norris Reservoir dominates the northwestern landscape of this 1936 survey, illustrating the Tennessee Valley Authority’s transformation of the region through hydroelectric development. The creation of the reservoir led to the relocation of communities like Loyston, with this sheet marking the New Loyston Cem and reflecting the shift from valley-bottom farming to recreational and conservation uses. Big Ridge Park and Big Ridge Park Lake appear prominently, preserved as early TVA public lands during the Great Depression.

Beyond the reservoir, the topography is defined by parallel ridges like Chestnut Ridge and Copper Ridge, where rural life is documented through numerous local landmarks. Genealogists and historians can locate family-centric points such as Webb Mill, Hansard Mill, and Byrams Fork Ch. The map captures a dense network of country schools, including Hickory Valley Sch and Centerview Sch, alongside isolated geological features like Chandlers Cave.