1955 Map of Swatara Hill

About this map

Blue Mountain and Sharp Mountain define the topography of this Schuylkill County landscape, where the ridges of the Appalachians dictated the early routes of industry and transit. Along the central corridor, the Reading railroad parallels the course of Swatara Cr, connecting small rural settlements like Roedersville and De Turksville. The map documents a deeply established religious and social network, evidenced by numerous country churches such as Hauers Ch, Salem Ch, and Zion Ch. To the south, the Appalachian Trail follows the high ridge of Blue Mountain, passing landmark shelters like Hertline Shelter and Applebee Shelter. The presence of Sweet Arrow Lake and specialized camps like the YWCA Camp and Camp Swatara indicate the area's mid-century role as a recreational retreat, balanced against the older agrarian and industrial patterns of the valley floor.