1894 Map of Petersburg

About this map

Petersburg and the surrounding riverfront communities of Blandford, Pocahontas, and Ettricks dominate the upper portion of this survey, illustrating the urban and industrial hub of the Appomattox River in the late nineteenth century. The map provides significant topographical detail of the regional landscape, including the historic site of the Crater and the nearby National Cemetery. To the south and east, the landscape is defined by vast swamp networks such as Blackwater Swamp and Rowanty Creek, which are interspersed with numerous family-named landmarks and rural outposts. Local infrastructure is heavily tied to the railroad and mill economy, evidenced by several water-powered sites like Rowland's Mill and Smith's Mill. The extensive rail network, including the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad and the Norfolk and Western Railroad, connects distant crossings and stores such as Youngblood's Store and Browning's Store, reflecting the era's transport-driven settlement patterns.