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1954 Map of Matewan

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Matewan
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1991
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1991

About this map

The Tug Fork carves a winding path along the Kentucky and West Virginia border, anchoring a landscape defined by its coal-mining infrastructure and tight valley settlements. At the bend of the river, Matewan sits opposite Buskirk and McCarr, serving as a focal point for the region's industrial activity. Evidence of the extractive economy is visible in the extensive Strip Mine operations that crown the ridges and the Norfolk and Western railway lines that track the river's edge.

Smaller mountain communities and family-named hollows like Sydnor Addition and Thacker are connected by narrow roads and a former tramway. Local life is further evidenced by institutional landmarks such as Blue Spring Church, New Alma Church, and the McCoy School. From the riverside flats of Hatfield Bottom to the high vantage of Dicks Knob, the map illustrates the complex relationship between the local population and the demanding topography of Mingo and Pike counties.