2019 Map of Valley Head

About this map

The Tygart Valley River carves a central path through this section of the Monongahela National Forest, defining the settlement patterns of several small mountain communities. Along the river and its many tributaries like Elkwater Fork and Ralston Run, clusters of homes and family landmarks are concentrated near the valley floor. To the west, Monterville and Brady Gate sit near the headwaters of Valley Fork, while the village of Mingo marks the southern reach of the survey. The terrain is structured by a series of prominent ridges including Mill Ridge, Dry Ridge, and Swecker Ridge, which separate the various drainage basins. For those researching local lineages, the map identifies family-named burial sites such as Stalnaker Cem, Simmons Cem, and Ware Cem, providing specific locations for these rural cemeteries. Prominent natural springs, including Blue Spring and Ezra Bennett Spring, further highlight the hydrological importance of this high-elevation landscape.