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1961 Map of Booneville

Name: 1961 Topographic Map of Booneville
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1963
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1963

About this map

The South Fork Kentucky River meanders through Owsley County, centering on the town of Booneville. In the early 1960s, this landscape was defined by the intersection of traditional Appalachian settlement patterns and emerging industrial activity. The map reveals numerous strip mines and oil wells scattered among the ridges, contrasting with the longstanding social anchors of the region. Local genealogy and history are preserved through named landmarks like Pendergrass Cem and Shepherd Cem, alongside community centers such as Elk Lick Ch and Esau Ch.

The topography is deeply dissected, featuring prominent landforms like The Sea and Chestnut Gap. While the river served as the historical artery, the 1961 revision shows a reliance on state routes like KY 30 and KY 28 to connect outlying settlements including Scoville, Levi, and Conkling. Cultural sites, ranging from the Fish Creek Sch to a Drive-in Theater along the riverbanks, illustrate the mid-century character of this Kentucky highland community.