1962 Map of Roanoke

About this map

Roanoke serves as the hub of this experimental 1962 orthophotographic mosaic, which uses aerial photography to show the city's mid-century expansion into the surrounding valley. The dense urban center and residential blocks are clearly visible, bounded to the south by the winding Roanoke River and to the north by the campus of Hollins College. This specific edition was produced to test new mapping techniques, resulting in a unique visual that combines photographic detail with traditional topographic labels. The transportation infrastructure of the era is prominent, featuring the Norfolk and Western rail lines and the Municipal Airport. Surrounding settlements like Vinton, Hollins, and Cloverdale appear in their pre-interstate configurations. The landscape is defined by its waterways, including Tinker Creek and Glade Creek, and the looming presence of Brushy Mountain and Coyner Mtn along the valley edges.