1952 Map of Portersburg

About this map

Small rural communities and a dense network of country schools define this section of Clay and Laurel Counties in the early 1950s. The Rockcastle River and its South Fork meander through the landscape, joined by numerous drainages like Mill Creek and Sandy Creek. The social fabric of the era is visible in the distribution of community hubs such as Portersburg, Fogertown, and McWhorter, many of which supported their own local educational and religious institutions. Notable examples include the Terrell Creek Sch, Dari Jones Sch, and New Salem Ch. The topography is marked by significant rises like Hammons Hill and Cutoff Mtn, while early industrial activity is evidenced by a Strip Mine located near Wyatt Chapel. This survey reflects a time before extensive modern development, when many families relied on these local landmarks and the winding mountain roads that connected them.