1961 Map of Brownton

About this map

Coal extraction dominates the landscape of this Barbour County region, where Strip Mines and industrial infrastructure like the Tipple and Conveyor are etched into the hills surrounding Brownton. The Baltimore and Ohio railroad follows the valley of Elk Creek, serving a network of mines and settlements including Galloway and Astor. This 1961 field check captures a community in transition, balancing heavy industry with rural landmarks like the Covered Bridge on Brushy Fork. Local social centers are well-documented through country schools like Mt Vernon Sch and churches such as Trinity Ch and Green Hill Ch. The map provides a detailed look at the interface between the narrow creek bottoms and the heights of Bear Mountain, tracing the complex road and rail network required to move West Virginia coal to market.