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1902 Map of Kenly

Name: 1902 Topographic Map of Kenly
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1957
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1957

About this map

The rail-driven growth of the Coastal Plain is evident in this landscape, where the Atlantic Coast Line and Southern R. R. anchor a network of small agricultural hubs. Communities like Kenly, Micro, and Pine Level follow the iron corridors, while the surrounding countryside is defined by an intricate web of "crossroads" settlements such as Moores Crossroads, Buckhorn Crossroads, and Hares Crossroads. These named intersections point to the importance of early overland travel and local commerce at places like Barnes Store.

Hydrology plays a significant role in the region's layout, with Contentnea Creek and Little River meandering through numerous swampy lowlands, including Buckhorn Swamp, Marsh Swamp, and Burn Coat Swamp. The presence of Hornes Mill on the upper reaches of Taylor Creek suggests the small-scale industry that supported these rural districts. Genealogists can trace early neighborhood clusters in Beulahtown, Lucama, and the outlying Radford Crossroads at the start of the twentieth century.