2014 Map of Welch

About this map

The mountain town of Welch sits at the confluence of Tug Fork and Elkhorn Cr, serving as the central hub for a network of mining-era settlements across the hollows of McDowell County. The landscape is defined by the steep elevation of Indian Ridge and Belcher Mtn, where roads like WV-16 and Us-52 wind through narrow valleys connecting industrial communities such as Gary, Havaco, and Superior. This modern survey reveals the persistent footprint of the regional coal-mining legacy, documented through numerous branch hollows and specialized infrastructure like the Welch Municipal Airport. Local history and genealogy are anchored by specific community landmarks, including the Old Belcher Mtn Community Cem and New Belcher Mtn Community Cem. The map provides a clear picture of the transport patterns along the river bends, from the residential streets of Hemphill to the outlying settlements at Big Four and Kimball.