1966 Map of Gilreath

About this map

The Brushy Mountains dominate this landscape in the mid-1960s, a region defined by intricate ridges and the upper reaches of the South Yadkin River. Local life centers around a dense network of country churches and small community hubs like Gilreath and Old Gilreath. The map documents a deeply rooted rural infrastructure, where family and community landmarks are frequent, such as the Bethany Ch and its nearby Old Bethany Cem. High points across Vannoy Ridge and Fitches Knob provide vantage points for the Brushy Mountain Fire Tower, which overlooks the winding headwaters of Hunting Creek and Rocky Creek. This survey was conducted just as the modern road system began to formalize around older routes like Pike Road and Wildcat Road, preserving a detailed view of the Wilkes County backcountry before further modernization.