1947 Map of Chavies

About this map

Sand Mountain and the deep cleft of Big Wills Valley dominate this 1940s landscape, illustrating the rugged topography of DeKalb County. The plateau of Sand Mountain is dotted with rural settlements like Rainsville, Chavies, and Lydia, connected by a network of roads and trails that navigate the steep descents through numerous gaps. Several creek crossings rely on historic points such as Suttell Ford and Bohannon Ford, while industrial footprints are visible at Hughes Mill and Killian Mill. The survey reflects a deeply rooted community, documented through numerous country churches like Mt Moriah Ch and schools including the Log Cabin Sch. At the southeastern edge, the terrain rises again toward Lookout Mountain, with the valley floor supporting the Southern Railway corridor and critical infrastructure like the Fort Payne Water Works.