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2013 Map of Charles City

Name: 2013 Topographic Map of Charles City
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2013
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2013

About this map

The James River dominates this Tidewater landscape, carving out the Threemile Reach and Sevenmile Reach while shaping the development of colonial-era estates and landings. Historic plantations and settlements such as Sherwood Forest and Upper Brandon sit along the riverbanks, reflecting a centuries-old reliance on waterway transportation. The map documents the persistent river-and-road geography of Charles City, where the John Tyler Memorial Hwy connects inland communities like Ruthville and New Hope to the river's edge.

Evidence of historical defense and maritime commerce is visible at Fort Powhatan and various river access points, including Wilcox Wharf and Wyanoke Wharf. Numerous small tributaries like Kittewan Creek and Mapsico Creek feed into the James, creating distinct landforms like Wyanoke Neck and Sturgeon Point. This topographical record captures a region defined by its deep historical roots, from the site of Flowerdew Hundred to the many family-named landmarks that anchor the local genealogy.