1967 Map of Sylva North

About this map

Sylva and the surrounding high ridges of the Plott Balsams define this 1967 survey of western North Carolina. The landscape is a complex intersection of the Cherokee Indian Reservation and Nantahala National Forest, where the modern infrastructure of the Blue Ridge Parkway skirts massive peaks like Waterrock Knob and Browning Knob. Along the valley floors, the Southern railroad follows the course of Scott Creek Highway, connecting small communities such as Addie, Beta, and Willits-Ochre Hill. Local life is anchored by family-named landmarks and institutions like the CJ Harris Community Hospital, Scotts Creek School, and several rural sanctuaries including Liberty Ch and Oldfield Ch. Mapping by the Tennessee Valley Authority captures a period of active land use, from the Sylva Reservoir to a documented strip mine near Cope Mountain.