1957 Map of Murphy

About this map

Murphy serves as the focal point of this mid-century Western North Carolina landscape, situated at the confluence of the Hiwassee River and the Nottely River. The map captures the area following the creation of Hiwassee Lake, showing the submerged river valleys and the complex shoreline that includes Ramsey Bend and Die Bend. The region's indigenous history is distinctly marked by the Cherokee Indian Land Donation and Cherokee Indian Land Tract No 2, while the industrial character is evidenced by several Talc mines and the Southern railroad line. Deep in the Nantahala National Forest, rural life is anchored by family-named landmarks and local institutions like Mt Liberty Ch and Snow Hill Ch. The topography is defined by significant elevations such as Panther Top and Fort Butler Mtn, reflecting the transition from valley floor to steep ridges.