1901 Map of Nicholas

About this map

Gauley River and its major tributaries, the Cherry River and Cranberry River, define the landscape of this Central West Virginia territory at the turn of the century. As industrial timbering and coal interest began to reach into the mountain coves, the W. Va. and P. R. R. established a presence near Lanes Bottom and Camden on Gauley. The map documents a critical era when river crossings were the primary infrastructure, marking numerous points of transit such as Carnifex Ferry, Hughes Ferry, and Persinger Ford. Small communities like Summersville and Richwood serve as anchors among a high-relief terrain featuring prominent landmarks like Powell Mtn. and Beech Mtn.. Genealogists will find many remote settlements and post offices recorded, including Wainville P.O. and Hookersville, providing a glimpse into the distribution of early Nicholas and Fayette County families.