1891 Map of Jonesville

About this map

Jonesville and the surrounding tri-state terrain of the late 19th century are defined by the massive ridges of the Appalachian chain, where transportation was dictated by river gaps and mountain fords. This reconnaissance survey, conducted between 1882 and 1885, captures the landscape of the Cumberland Plateau before the full-scale industrialization of the coal fields. Settlements like Mt Pleasant and Sneedville act as early hubs within a network of valleys carved by the Cumberland River, Powell River, and Clinch River. The map details critical crossings such as Poteet Ford and Dickerson Ford, which were essential for regional movement through Lee County, Virginia, and into Hancock County, Tennessee. Significant landmarks like the White Rocks and the distinctive geological feature of The Pocket highlight the complex topography that early surveyors and settlers navigated, while numerous gaps like Pennington Gap and Mulberry Gap show the established routes through Pine Mountain and Cumberland Mountain.