1961 Map of Latour

About this map

Helena and West Helena dominate the southern portion of this Mississippi River delta landscape, where the St Francis National Forest blankets the rising ground of Crowley's Ridge. The mapping highlights the complex hydrologic history of the region, specifically along the Mississippi River where the Hardin Cut-off altered the state boundary between Arkansas and Mississippi. Smaller agricultural settlements like Jeffersonville, LaGrange, and Lexa are connected by the Missouri Pacific railroad lines, which served the area's timber and cotton economies. The map is particularly rich in genealogical landmarks, documenting numerous rural congregations such as Mt Pleasant Ch, New Zion Ch, and Morning Star Ch, alongside local education sites like the Helena-West Helena Central High Sch and the Rollingwall Sch. Aerial surveys from 1960 and planetable work provide a precise record of the river's bends and bars, including Bordeaux Point and Shoo Fly Bar.