1974 Map of Silas

About this map

Gilbertown and Silas anchor this western Alabama landscape, captured during a period of active energy extraction and timber operations. The map documents an extensive Oil Field north of the Alabama and Northern RR tracks, with numerous Oil Wells peppered throughout the drainages of Little Mill Creek and Okatuppa Creek. These industrial features sit alongside a dense network of rural community landmarks, including Old Samuel and Souwilpa. A high concentration of family-linked sites and small congregations such as Harrison Cem, Coopers Chapel, and Allen Temple reflect the deep-rooted settlement patterns of the region. The terrain is defined by the winding paths of Souwilpa Creek and Turkey Creek, which create a complex system of branches and hollows where small settlements like Barrytown and Bolinger took hold along the primary rail and road corridors.