1953 Map of Graham

About this map

The winding Pond River and its multiple forks create a complex drainage system along the borders of Muhlenberg, Hopkins, and Christian Counties. During this early 1950s survey, the area around Graham and Graham Sta reflects an economy tied to both the Illinois Central railroad and the burgeoning coal industry, evidenced by prominent Strip Mines in the northwestern corner. The rural landscape is densely dotted with community landmarks, including numerous family-named burial grounds like Oglesby Cem and Sharbers Cem. Educational and spiritual centers such as Vernal Grove Sch and Yeargins Chapel are scattered throughout the hills, while river crossings like Jethro Ford indicate how locals navigated the many creeks before modern infrastructure. The map also documents several small settlements such as McNary, Bakersport, and Bancroft that served as local hubs during this period.