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1969 Map of Thurmond

Name: 1969 Topographic Map of Thurmond
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1989
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1989

About this map

The New River Gorge National River defines the landscape of this 1960s survey, illustrating a deep river canyon carved through the plateau. At the center of this industrial corridor lies Thurmond, a vital rail hub where 3 Tracks navigate the narrow riverbanks. This era captures the intensive coal and mineral extraction that shaped Fayette County, visible through a dense network of strip mines, mine dumps, and several conveyor tipples used for loading materials from the heights of Garden Ground Mountain down to the rail lines.

Beyond the industrial core, the map reveals several smaller communities and landmarks including Sewell, Stone Cliff, and McKendree. Local genealogy is anchored by rural landmarks such as Salem Ch, Gentry Ch, and Little Rock Ch, alongside the eastern edge of Babcock State Park. The topography transitions from the populated valley of Minden and Oak Hill to the high elevations of Beury Mountain, showcasing the logistical challenges of West Virginia's mountain-and-river economy.