1954 Map of Clintwood

About this map

Pine Mountain forms a dramatic topographic boundary in this mid-century survey, marking the jagged interstate line where Kentucky and Virginia meet. The map reveals a series of natural high-altitude passes that historically dictated movement through the Cumberland plateau, including Blowing Rock Gap, Jesse Gap, and Grassy Gap. These gaps provided critical passage for travelers and early settlers navigating the steep elevations between Pike County and Dickenson County. Below the ridge line, the drainage patterns of Elkhorn Creek, Pigeon Branch, and Toms Branch illustrate the deeply dissected nature of the terrain. The inclusion of mapping data from the Consolidated Coal Company in the margin notes reflects the industrial importance of this geography, highlighting the connection between the region's complex geology and its coal-producing economy during the early 1950s.