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1939 Map of Clarksdale

Name: 1939 Topographic Map of Clarksdale
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1943
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1943

About this map

Clarksdale anchors this Delta landscape, situated at a major bend in the Sunflower River. The surrounding territory is defined by an intricate network of waterways like Cassidy Bayou and Harris Bayou, reflecting the heavy drainage efforts required for the region's agricultural development. The Yazoo and Mississippi Valley railroad serves as the primary artery for local commerce, connecting rural stops such as Beverly Davenport Sta and Hopson.

The density of community institutions reveals the social fabric of the era, particularly for African American education and worship. Multiple Rosenwald Sch locations and the Hilliard Sch appear alongside a high concentration of country churches, including Beautiful Zion Ch and Peters Rock Ch. Smaller hubs like Alligator and Lyon show the established settlement patterns before the shift toward larger urban centers. Natural landmarks like Beasley Lake and Buck Pond Swamp provide a glimpse into the original terrain of Coahoma and Bolivar counties.