1940 Map of Fontana

About this map

The Great Smoky Mountains dominate the northern half of this landscape, where the proposed boundary for the national park meets the Nantahala National Forest. The Little Tennessee River carves through the center, feeding into Lake Cheoah and passing the Gaging Station. This era captures the region's industrial and transit network before major topographical changes, featuring the Fontana Copper Mine and the Santeetlah Power House. Local community life is centered around small rural institutions like Welch Cove Sch, Upper Yellow Creek Sch, and the Rock Spring Ch. The Appalachian Trail threads across the ridges, while the Southern railroad provides the primary valley transport. Family history is anchored in the Yellow Creek Cem and Cable Cove Cem, alongside settlements like Proctor and Fontana.