1959 Map of Salem

About this map

Sumter National Forest dominates this upland terrain in the late 1950s, where the Whitewater River and Toxaway River converge to form the Keowee River. This river system defines the border between Oconee and Pickens counties, a landscape soon to be radically altered by later hydroelectric projects. At this time, the valley still holds the small community of Jocassee and Camp Jocassee, situated near the riverbanks. The map reveals a network of rural life centered on remote houses of worship, such as Mt Carmel Ch and Fall Creek Ch, alongside family-named topography like McKinney Mtn and McKinneys Mountain. To the south, the town of Salem serves as a small hub, while crossings like Shallow Ford Bridge and Chapman Bridge facilitate movement across the steep river valleys and numerous branches feeding into Eastatoe Creek.