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2016 Map of Nolansburg

Name: 2016 Topographic Map of Nolansburg
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2016
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2016

About this map

The ridge-and-valley landscape of the Daniel Boone National Forest dominates this topographic study of Harlan County. The terrain is defined by the massive elevation of Black Mtn and Pine Mountain, which channel settlement and transportation into narrow corridors. Along the Poor Fork of the Cumberland River, small communities like Nolansburg, Laden, and Dillon follow the winding course of the valley, while higher mountain gaps such as Shell Gap and Jacks Gap provide the only natural passage through the steep terrain.

Genealogists can find localized landmarks like Nolan Cem and Kelly Cem, alongside vanished rail stops and industrial sites such as English Spur and Benito. The map illustrates the persistence of small mountain hamlets like Big Laurel and Short Town in a region where the geography of the coal-bearing mountains dictates the layout of every road and homestead. The complex drainage network, including Greasy Creek and Big Laurel Cr, further emphasizes the isolation and character of these eastern Kentucky hollows.