1954 Map of Blackford

About this map

The Illinois Central Railroad serves as a central artery through this rural landscape, connecting the small communities of Sullivan and Blackford during the mid-1950s. The terrain is defined by the winding course of the Tradewater River, which forms the boundary between Crittenden, Union, and Webster counties. The map captures a transition in land use, showing active Strip Mines and several Oil Wells emerging alongside established agricultural life. Family history and community landmarks are prominent, including Nunn Cem, Kilpatrick Cem, and the Historical Grave near Monument Ridge. Small country churches like Enon Ch and Rosebud Ch are scattered among the ridges and hollows, such as Pat Duffy Hollow and Cave Spring Hollow, illustrating the dispersed settlement patterns characteristic of the Kentucky coal field region at this time.