1949 Map of McDowell

About this map

The Tombigbee River forms a sweeping boundary through this portion of West Alabama, defined by sharp meanders like Twelvemile Bend and The Ravine. This 1940s landscape is deeply rural, organized around small community centers such as Belmont and Brownstown. The social fabric of the era is visible through its dense network of local institutions, particularly the numerous country schools and churches that served the agricultural population. Significant landmarks include Bucks Chapel, Palestine Ch, and several family-named burial grounds like the Taylor Cem and Houpt Cem. Transportation in the region relies on a mix of old river crossings and rail, notably the McDowell Ferry and the Southern railroad line. The terrain rises to the west toward Armstrong Hill, while the lowlands are marked by Charleston Swamp and Hayes Creek, illustrating the transition from the river bottom to the higher ridges of Sumter County.