1942 Map of Brokenburg

About this map

The Po River and Ta River systems define this rural landscape of central Spotsylvania County, where a network of historic crossroads settlements supported a farming and timber economy. Mapped by the Army Map Service during the early 1940s, the terrain is characterized by winding ridges separated by named drainage runs like Catharpin Run and Gladys Run. Local social life centered on several country churches, including Shady Grove Ch, Hebron Ch, and Lebanon Ch. Notable centers of trade and travel appear at Todds Tavern in the north and the village of Brokenburg in the south. The presence of a Lookout Tower near Shady Grove Corner reflects the vital importance of forestry management in this heavily wooded Virginia Piedmont region during the mid-20th century.