1964 Map of Williamson

About this map

The Tug Fork and Tug River define this borderland landscape, where the coal-driven economy of the mid-1960s is etched into the steep topography of the West Virginia and Kentucky state line. The city of Williamson serves as the regional hub, flanked by industrial and residential pockets like West Williamson, South Williamson, and East Williamson. The Norfolk and Western railroad tracks follow the river's winding course, linking a string of communities including Chattaroy, Nolan, and Borderland. This period of development is characterized by numerous mines and gas wells scattered across the ridges, supported by local institutions such as Whitepost Sch and Turkey Creek Sch. The map records the intricate network of hollows and branches, from Hurricane Branch to Chaffin Branch, that shaped the settlement patterns of families living along the river valley during this era of peak industrial activity.