1948 Map of Elizabeth City

About this map

The Norfolk Southern Railroad defines the terrestrial movement of this coastal landscape, cutting a diagonal path through Camden and Currituck counties to connect settlements like Shawboro and Belcross. This mid-century survey illustrates an environment deeply intertwined with water and drainage, characterized by the vast reaches of the Dismal Swamp and Great Swamp, as well as engineered waterways like the Roland Creek Canal and Run Swamp Canal. While Elizabeth City anchors the southwestern corner, the map reveals a network of rural crossroads and landings, including Lambs Corner, Spences Corner, and the riverside community of Shiloh. Industrial and commercial footprints are visible at the Lumber Mill near Indian Town and the waterfront at Texaco Beach. The presence of numerous small settlements such as Sligo, Snowden, and Maple reflects a dispersed agricultural and timber-based economy established well before the modern expansion of the region.