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1926 Map of Parsons

Name: 1926 Topographic Map of Parsons
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1926
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1926

About this map

The confluence of the Blackwater River and Shavers Fork forms a vital industrial corridor through this part of West Virginia in the mid-1920s. Centered on the town of Parsons, the landscape is defined by steep mountain ridges like Black Fork Mountain and Canaan Mountain that hem in narrow valleys where timber and coal towns flourished. The presence of the Western Maryland railroad facilitated heavy transit through mountain passes, connecting rail-side settlements such as Hendricks, Hambleton, and the mining hub at Coketon.

Beyond the industrial river towns, the map reveals a dense network of upland rural community centers, often consisting of little more than a named school or church. Features like the White Ridge Church and school, Macedonia Church, and the isolated Mt Hope School provide essential markers for genealogists tracing family roots in Tucker County. The winding course of Horseshoe Run and the upland terrain of St George reflect a transition from valley commerce to high-country farming and forestry.