Rare Old Map of Cashiers, North Carolina by USGS, 1947: Nantahala National Forest & South Carolina State Line
Restored in our London workshop from the original 1947 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
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Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.
Restored in London • Printed and framed in Australia
Restored from the original 1947 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Full description
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Gift message & custom finish
If you want to add a gift message, or a finish (jigsaw, aluminium board, etc.) that is not available here, please request it in the "order note" when you check out.
Every order is custom made, so if you need the size adjusted slightly, or printed on an unusual material, just let us know. We've done thousands of custom orders over the years, so there's (almost) nothing we can't manage.
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Titled “Cashiers,” this 1947 U.S. Geological Survey topographical map presents a richly contoured portrait of the southern Appalachian highlands around Cashiers, North...
Continue readingTitled “Cashiers,” this 1947 U.S. Geological Survey topographical map presents a richly contoured portrait of the southern Appalachian highlands around Cashiers, North Carolina. Drawn at the detailed 1:24,000 scale, it captures a mountain landscape defined by steep ridges, folded valleys, forested slopes, and winding roads threading through difficult terrain. Cashiers appears not as the polished resort community it would later become, but as a small mountain settlement embedded in a rugged geography. The map’s contour lines give the sheet its distinctive visual rhythm, revealing the dramatic elevation changes that shape movement, settlement, water flow, and land use across this corner of western North Carolina.
The U.S. Geological Survey, founded in 1879, became the nation’s great cartographic authority for reading the American landscape with scientific precision. Its topographic quadrangles were essential tools for engineers, foresters, travelers, planners, and government agencies, combining practical utility with understated cartographic elegance. In this map, the USGS method is especially well suited to the Cashiers region, where elevation is the dominant fact of geography. Each contour traces the rise and fall of Appalachian terrain, translating mountains into a language of lines. Roads, trails, streams, lakes, and settlements are set within this measured relief, offering a lucid view of both natural structure and human adaptation.
Cashiers lies near one of the most ecologically and topographically compelling parts of the southern Appalachians, close to the Nantahala National Forest and not far from the South Carolina state line. The map evokes a landscape of cool highlands, wooded coves, narrow valleys, and high ridges, with drainage patterns revealing how water gathers and descends through the mountains. Nantahala National Forest, long valued for its forests, watersheds, and outdoor recreation, frames the region as part of a broader protected mountain environment. The nearby presence of Sumter National Forest to the south further situates the map within an interstate upland corridor of exceptional scenic and environmental importance.
As a historical document, the map preserves the Cashiers area before the full force of modern development reshaped many mountain communities. Its roads are fewer, its settlement patterns more dispersed, and its infrastructure more modest than those familiar today. The main highway stands out as a lifeline through the mountains, while smaller roads and trails suggest local movement between valleys, farms, forests, and scattered dwellings. Unnamed lakes and reservoirs punctuate the terrain, hinting at both natural drainage and managed water resources. The result is a compelling snapshot of a region in transition, poised between older rural lifeways and the later growth of recreation, tourism, and conservation.
The beauty of this map lies in its union of restraint and complexity. Rather than pictorial embellishment, it relies on the disciplined artistry of topographic relief: dense contouring around peaks and ridges, gentler spacing in valleys, and a precise network of hydrology and transportation. The viewer can sense the physical effort demanded by the terrain, where every route must negotiate slope, stream, and ridge. For collectors drawn to Appalachian history, North Carolina geography, or the visual language of scientific mapping, “Cashiers” offers more than a depiction of place. It is a finely observed record of mountain form, regional identity, and the evolving relationship between wilderness, settlement, and access.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Cashiers, NC
- Nantahala National Forest
- South Carolina state line
- Sumter National Forest
- Valleys (unnamed)
- Lakes (unnamed)
- Contoured peaks and ridges (unnamed)
- Roads (main highway shown)
- Trails (unnamed)
- Reservoirs (unnamed)
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the U.S. Geological Survey.
- Historical topographical map created in 1947.
- Drawn at a scale of 1:24,000.
- Shows Cashiers in North Carolina and surrounding areas.
- The USGS is known for comprehensive geological and topographical mapping across the United States, dating back to its formation in 1879.
- Features a distinct topographic relief style, using contour lines to represent elevation changes across the landscape.
- Detailed elevation representation indicates mountainous terrain consistent with the Appalachian region.
- Captures the geographic layout during a time when infrastructure and land use were significantly different from today.
- Reflects a period before widespread development and conservation efforts.
Looking for a particular place? Review the detailed images to confirm that the town, landmark or feature you have in mind appears on the map. If you are unsure, ask our workshop to check before you order.
Detailed maps are especially rewarding at larger sizes, where names, boundaries and decorative features have more room to be appreciated. Use the close-up preview and size guide to choose the right scale for your wall.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.
Where personalisation is available, you can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. See personalised map examples.
Every piece is printed to museum-grade archival standards using fade-resistant pigment inks on acid-free matte paper. Choose an unframed map print, framed map or canvas using the finish options above. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
With its rich detail and strong sense of place, this map makes a considered gift for a new home, anniversary, retirement or anyone with a personal connection to the area shown. Still deciding? Explore our collection of rare old and vintage maps to discover another place, period or style.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Titled “Cashiers,” this 1947 U.S. Geological Survey topographical map presents a richly contoured portrait of the southern Appalachian highlands around Cashiers, North Carolina. Drawn at the detailed 1:24,000 scale, it captures a mountain landscape defined by steep ridges, folded valleys, forested slopes, and winding roads threading through difficult terrain. Cashiers appears not as the polished resort community it would later become, but as a small mountain settlement embedded in a rugged geography. The map’s contour lines give the sheet its distinctive visual rhythm, revealing the dramatic elevation changes that shape movement, settlement, water flow, and land use across this corner of western North Carolina.
The U.S. Geological Survey, founded in 1879, became the nation’s great cartographic authority for reading the American landscape with scientific precision. Its topographic quadrangles were essential tools for engineers, foresters, travelers, planners, and government agencies, combining practical utility with understated cartographic elegance. In this map, the USGS method is especially well suited to the Cashiers region, where elevation is the dominant fact of geography. Each contour traces the rise and fall of Appalachian terrain, translating mountains into a language of lines. Roads, trails, streams, lakes, and settlements are set within this measured relief, offering a lucid view of both natural structure and human adaptation.
Cashiers lies near one of the most ecologically and topographically compelling parts of the southern Appalachians, close to the Nantahala National Forest and not far from the South Carolina state line. The map evokes a landscape of cool highlands, wooded coves, narrow valleys, and high ridges, with drainage patterns revealing how water gathers and descends through the mountains. Nantahala National Forest, long valued for its forests, watersheds, and outdoor recreation, frames the region as part of a broader protected mountain environment. The nearby presence of Sumter National Forest to the south further situates the map within an interstate upland corridor of exceptional scenic and environmental importance.
As a historical document, the map preserves the Cashiers area before the full force of modern development reshaped many mountain communities. Its roads are fewer, its settlement patterns more dispersed, and its infrastructure more modest than those familiar today. The main highway stands out as a lifeline through the mountains, while smaller roads and trails suggest local movement between valleys, farms, forests, and scattered dwellings. Unnamed lakes and reservoirs punctuate the terrain, hinting at both natural drainage and managed water resources. The result is a compelling snapshot of a region in transition, poised between older rural lifeways and the later growth of recreation, tourism, and conservation.
The beauty of this map lies in its union of restraint and complexity. Rather than pictorial embellishment, it relies on the disciplined artistry of topographic relief: dense contouring around peaks and ridges, gentler spacing in valleys, and a precise network of hydrology and transportation. The viewer can sense the physical effort demanded by the terrain, where every route must negotiate slope, stream, and ridge. For collectors drawn to Appalachian history, North Carolina geography, or the visual language of scientific mapping, “Cashiers” offers more than a depiction of place. It is a finely observed record of mountain form, regional identity, and the evolving relationship between wilderness, settlement, and access.
Cities, towns and places on this map
- Cashiers, NC
- Nantahala National Forest
- South Carolina state line
- Sumter National Forest
- Valleys (unnamed)
- Lakes (unnamed)
- Contoured peaks and ridges (unnamed)
- Roads (main highway shown)
- Trails (unnamed)
- Reservoirs (unnamed)
Historical context & cartographic details
- Produced by the U.S. Geological Survey.
- Historical topographical map created in 1947.
- Drawn at a scale of 1:24,000.
- Shows Cashiers in North Carolina and surrounding areas.
- The USGS is known for comprehensive geological and topographical mapping across the United States, dating back to its formation in 1879.
- Features a distinct topographic relief style, using contour lines to represent elevation changes across the landscape.
- Detailed elevation representation indicates mountainous terrain consistent with the Appalachian region.
- Captures the geographic layout during a time when infrastructure and land use were significantly different from today.
- Reflects a period before widespread development and conservation efforts.
Looking for a particular place? Review the detailed images to confirm that the town, landmark or feature you have in mind appears on the map. If you are unsure, ask our workshop to check before you order.
Detailed maps are especially rewarding at larger sizes, where names, boundaries and decorative features have more room to be appreciated. Use the close-up preview and size guide to choose the right scale for your wall.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.
Where personalisation is available, you can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. See personalised map examples.
Every piece is printed to museum-grade archival standards using fade-resistant pigment inks on acid-free matte paper. Choose an unframed map print, framed map or canvas using the finish options above. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
With its rich detail and strong sense of place, this map makes a considered gift for a new home, anniversary, retirement or anyone with a personal connection to the area shown. Still deciding? Explore our collection of rare old and vintage maps to discover another place, period or style.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Many of our maps and art prints are chosen as thoughtful gifts for homes, offices, studies and meaningful places.
Choose a framed option for the easiest ready-to-hang gift, or choose an unframed print if the recipient may prefer to select their own frame.
We make orders locally in 23 countries around the world, so gifts can often be produced close to the recipient. This helps them arrive faster, travel more safely, and avoid customs or import duty surprises.
- We can deliver directly to the recipient
- Framed pieces arrive ready to hang
- Unframed prints are carefully packed in a strong protective tube
- Almost every order is made locally, for faster, safer gifting
- 90-day returns give the recipient time to decide
If you are not sure what to choose, please contact us. We can help you pick the right map, size, finish or delivery option.
Most orders are made locally and delivered in around 2–3 working days, depending on the product, size and destination.
We print and frame maps and artwork in 23 countries around the world, so your order is usually made close to you or your recipient. That means faster delivery, less time in transit, and no customs or import duty surprises.
Personalised and customised pieces usually take an extra 1–2 working days, because we prepare your design and send it to you for approval before printing.
Very large framed orders can take a little longer, as they need extra care in production and delivery.
Every order is carefully packaged: unframed prints are sent in a strong protective tube, while framed pieces are securely packed with protective materials around the frame.
If you need your order by a particular date, please contact us before ordering. We’ll check the best production route and delivery option for your location.
Express delivery is available at checkout for most countries. Next-day delivery is available in the UK, US, Singapore and the UAE.
Your order is covered by our 90-day returns policy and 10-year guarantee.
Our standard frame is a gallery-style black ash hardwood frame, with a simple, modern look. It is approximately 20mm (0.8in) wide. You can also view some lovely customer photos of framed maps and art.
We use super-clear acrylic glazing, also known as Perspex or Acrylite, instead of traditional glass. It is lighter, safer, and has lower reflectivity, giving the artwork a clearer, cleaner appearance.
Six standard frame colours are available at no extra cost: black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white, and antique gold. Custom framing and mounting/matting is also available for customers looking for something more specific.
Most maps, art prints, and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced wooden box frame, and then float the piece within a wooden outer frame. The finished result is beautifully presented, with no glazing between you and the artwork.
All frames are supplied ready to hang, with either string or brackets fitted to the back. Very large frames will include heavy-duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
We can also supply old maps and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag, and other materials.
If you would prefer to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read our size guide before ordering.
Every Unique Maps piece begins with an authentic cartographic source or an original design from our London studio.
For our historic maps, we source rare originals from libraries, archives, auction houses and private collections around the world. We carefully restore each map for print—repairing age-related damage, balancing colour and improving clarity while preserving its original detail, texture and character.
Once restored, the map is prepared for your chosen size and finish. Your piece is then printed and, where selected, framed close to its delivery destination.
Our map prints use acid-free 200gsm archival matte paper and fade-resistant pigment inks, creating a rich, non-glossy finish designed to last. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
Canvas, cotton-rag and other specialist presentations are also available. Learn more about our materials and finishes.
Personalising your map
You can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. For personalised designs, we send a proof before printing and you can request changes before approval.
For more complex bespoke commissions, contact our design team.
Original or Aged
Choose Original for true-to-source colour, or Aged for a warmer, richer antique character created with our specialist ageing process. See examples of our Aged maps.
We’ve been restoring and producing maps and art prints since 1984, and we stand behind every piece.
Every order is covered by our 10-year guarantee and damage-free delivery guarantee. If your piece arrives damaged, we’ll replace or remake it free of charge. If anything else isn’t right, contact our workshop team and we’ll put it right promptly.
See our returns and refund policy for full details.
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