2019 Map of Philpott Lake

About this map

Philpott Lake dominates this 2019 survey, illustrating the complex geography created by the impoundment of the Smith River along the borders of Franklin, Patrick, and Henry Counties. The flooded landscape has transformed the former river valley into a series of peninsulas and islands, including Horseshoe Point, Goose Point, and Turkey Island. Local family history is preserved through an extensive network of small burial grounds scattered across the upland ridges, such as the Ratcliff-Whitlow-Young Cem and the Stone-Bondurant-Johnson Cem. To the west, the map shows the transition into more elevated terrain near Stuarts Knob and Little Mtn, while the community of West Bassett anchors the southeastern corner. This modern topographic record captures the area's dual identity as both a significant water resource and a region with deeply rooted homesteads and private family cemeteries.