1950 Map of Dutton

About this map

Sand Mountain dominates this mid-century landscape, a high plateau rising above the Tennessee River and the waters of the Guntersville Reservoir. The settlement pattern follows the high ground, with established crossroads like Dutton and Section serving as local hubs. This era shows a community deeply rooted in its local institutions, evidenced by the numerous country churches and schools scattered across the plateau, including Chaney Chapel Church, New Shady Grove Church, and the Patterson School. Along the river’s edge, the Lake Shore Drive Cabin Site Area suggests the beginning of recreational development following the creation of the reservoir. A network of local roads, such as TR 35 and TR 38, connects these upland farms to the Jackson and De Kalb County line, while rugged gaps like Section Gap and Gossett Gap provide passage through the steep terrain.