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1950 Map of Peaks of Otter

Name: 1950 Topographic Map of Peaks of Otter
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1952
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1952

About this map

The Blue Ridge mountains dominate this landscape, anchored by the iconic twin summits of Sharp Top Mtn and Flat Top Mtn. The Appalachian Trail snakes along the high ridges near Bearwallow Gap, overlooking the vast Jefferson National Forest. Below the peaks, the Norfolk and Western railway corridor serves as the primary artery for commerce and transit, connecting the mountain settlements of Montvale, Thaxton, and the county seat at Bedford.

Along the winding waters of Goose Creek and the Big Otter River, the presence of historic milling sites like Penicks Mill and Joppa Mill reflects a landscape still tied to local water power and agriculture. Community life centers on a network of country churches and schoolhouses, such as Walnut Grove Ch and Oakmulgee Sch, marking the rural intersections of Bedford and Botetourt counties. Local aviation is represented by the modest Bufords Airport, situated near the rail line.