1896 Map of Hillsville

About this map

The New River carves a winding path through the Blue Ridge foothills in this 1880s-era survey, revealing an industrial landscape defined by early iron and lead works. Operations such as Barren Spring Furnace, Boom Furnace, and Ivanhoe Furnace dot the riverbanks, while the presence of Lead Mines and Radford Furnace highlights the mineral extraction that drove the local economy. At Jackson Ferry, a crossing connects the rugged terrain of Wythe and Carroll counties, serving as a vital link before the widespread construction of modern bridges.