1966 Map of Widewater

About this map

The Potomac River defines the landscape of this 1960s survey, where the river's wide expanse separates the Virginia and Maryland shorelines. On the Virginia side, the Richmond Fredericksburg and Potomac railroad runs parallel to the coast, connecting coastal settlements like Widewater and Arkendale. This period shows a mix of rural commerce and military presence, evidenced by local landmarks such as Mountjoy Store and the southern reaches of the Quantico Marine Corps Schools. Along the intricate tidal inlets of Aquia Creek and Accokeek Creek, small community hubs like Widewater Beach and Fritters Corner provide a look at mid-century river life. Distinctive shore features such as the curiously named Youbedamn Landing and the ship-graveyard of Mallows Bay across the water offer unique points of interest for local historians and researchers studying the evolution of the Potomac's maritime and rail corridors.