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1953 Map of Shepherdstown

Name: 1953 Topographic Map of Shepherdstown
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1966
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1966

About this map

Shepherdstown sits along the sharp meanders of the Potomac River, serving as a vital historic hub in Jefferson County during the mid-twentieth century. The landscape is defined by the proximity of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal on the Maryland shore, while the town itself is anchored by Shepherd College and the landmark James Rumsey Bridge. The intersection of river commerce and rail transport is evident where the Norfolk and Western line crosses near Antietam Station, connecting the agricultural hinterlands to broader regional markets.

Rural life in the surrounding area is meticulously detailed through scattered settlements like Middleway, Scrabble, and Moler Crossroads. Local genealogy is well-served by the presence of Elmwood Cem and several rural worship centers including Marvin Chapel and Mt Wesley Ch. The terrain features distinct named points like Terrapin Neck and the dramatic Horseshoe Bend, illustrating how the winding river carved the borders between West Virginia and Maryland.