2016 Map of Fort Defiance

About this map

The Middle River meanders across this Shenandoah Valley landscape, defining the northern geography of the area surrounding Fort Defiance and Mount Sidney. To the south, the terrain is characterized by a series of significant drainage paths including Christians Creek, Meadow Run, and Coleytown Run. The mapping reveals a densely settled agricultural and residential corridor along the Western flank near Verona and Fishersville, while the central and eastern sections maintain a pattern of rural crossroads and distinct landforms such as Kennedy Ridge and Round Hill. Genealogists will find several notable burial grounds, including Belmont Cem, Saint Paul Cem, and Hildebrand Cem, scattered across the undulating valley floor. The placement of small communities like New Hope, Hermitage, and Knightly shows the enduring importance of local milling and farming hubs, connected by a network of historic routes like Knightly Mill Rd and Battlefield Rd.