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1958 Map of Mount Alto

Name: 1958 Topographic Map of Mount Alto
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1977
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1977

About this map

The Ohio River and Kanawha River define the western boundaries of this landscape, where the Baltimore and Ohio and Conrail railroads follow the water's edge. Inland, the terrain is shaped by ridges like Chestnut Ridge and Plants Ridge, sheltering a network of small communities and rural institutions. Settlements such as Mount Alto, Baden, and Rollins are connected by narrow valley roads, while the presence of the Beech Hill (Southside PO) indicates the area's local postal hub.

Genealogists will find a wealth of local landmarks, including several schools like Bearwallow Sch and Mountain Flower Sch, alongside numerous country churches such as Mt Moriah Ch and Harvey Chapel. The map reveals an agrarian economy transitioning toward energy extraction, noted by scattered Gas Well and Oil Well symbols. Local family names are preserved in features like Sayre Cem and Ward Cem, providing a detailed view of the social fabric in the mid-20th century.