1960 Map of Rock Ridge

About this map

The Withlacoochee River Swamp dominates this landscape on the borders of Sumter, Lake, and Polk counties, revealing a vast wetland environment before extensive modern development. The small community of Rock Ridge serves as the focal point of human activity, centered around the Little Flock Ch and the intersection of Rock Ridge Road. The area's transit history is preserved through the Seaboard Coast Line and an Old Railroad Grade, which traverse the wet terrain through Hart Hammock and Strand Hammock. Water management and local industry are evident in the presence of a Fish Hatchery and several drainage systems like Cumbee Drain and Mattress Drain. This survey captures the region just as photogrammetric updates in the late 1970s began to track subtle changes in the Withlacoochee River system and the surrounding cypress-laden topography.