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1918 Map of Tappahannock

Name: 1918 Topographic Map of Tappahannock
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1944
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1944

About this map

Tappahannock serves as the focal point of this Tidewater survey, situated where the broad Rappahannock River dictates the region's commerce and transport. The map traces the vital Steamboat Route connecting various riverfront landings, including Islington Landing and Wares Wharf, which were essential for moving agricultural goods before modern highway dominance. Inland, the landscape is defined by the dense, winding waters of Dragon Swamp and Exol Swamp, which constrained early settlement patterns and road networks.

Genealogists and local historians can locate established estates like Sabine Hall and Mount Airy, alongside institutional landmarks such as the Rappahannock Industrial Academy. Small crossroad communities such as Millers Tavern, Howertons, and Dunbrooke are meticulously mapped, often anchored by local industry like Croxton Mill or Essex Mill. The map also captures the maritime safety infrastructure of the era, notably the Ross Rock Light guarding the river channel.