1950 Map of Freeland

About this map

Freeland and its surrounding coal-country settlements define this mid-century landscape in Luzerne County. The map details the transition from the rugged crests of Nescopeck Mountain and Buck Mountain to the industrial activity concentrated along the Central RR of New Jersey. While the northern reaches of Wapwallopen Creek remain relatively forested with small rural outposts like Blytheburn and Honey Hole, the southern half of the sheet is marked by the distinct footprints of the anthracite industry. Numerous Strip Mines and Mine Dumps surround Upper Lehigh and Drifton, illustrating the physical impact of resource extraction on the terrain. Local social structures are well-documented through the presence of family-named landmarks like Reilly and Albert, alongside community centers such as Good Shepherd Ch and East Butler Chapel. The map captures a moment when the regional economy was deeply tied to the rail-and-mine network of the Lehigh Valley.