Bunkerville, Nevada, USA

According to geographer James Parsons (Landscape 30:1/1988), landmark letters are "typically constructed of whitewashed or painted stones or of concrete [and] are cultural signatures. They serve as conspicuous symbols of community and institutional identity." In this case, the Letter V stand for Virgin Valley. [2019]

St. George, Utah, USA

According to geographer James Parsons (Landscape 30:1/1988), most hillside letters "can be traced to a single decade, 1905-1915. They have almost always been built and maintained by college or high-school student groups." That's the case here. This D was created by students at Dixie Academy (now College) in 1915. [2019]

Quartzsite, Arizona, USA

According to geographer James Parsons (Landscape 30:1/1988), mountain monograms are "a conspicuous and durable part of the identity of many communities, fortifying institutional allegiances and the sense of place. . . . for travelers in the arid West the letters are 'anchors to the eye,' adding diversity and interest to the natural beauty of the landscape." [2015]

Beaumont, Texas, USA

So that's why there's nobody on the streets in Beaumont! The dinosaurs have returned and are patrolling the realm. What species is this? [2022]

Carmi, Illinois, USA

No one drives down Main Street without noticing the rather bland prefab building that now serves as a grocery outlet. What makes it stand out? The little giant out front. He's the one who puts the super in supermarket. In America, size sells. [2022]

Corydon, Indiana, USA

Blue River Chapel identifies with no denomination, and services are limited to Sunday evenings. Given its wilderness-like location and cul-de-sac access, few people attend. Still, it does one thing of mega-importance for the community: It hosts a prosperous-looking and well-cared for cemetery. Kudos to Blue River Chapel. [2022]

Louisville, Kentucky, USA

The northeastern seaboard dominated America's urban geography in the early 1800s. But by mid-century, a network of river cities in the trans-Appalachian west began to challenge the existing order. By 1840, Louisville was solidly among the "top 20" urban places in the U.S., and it held that status for at least four decades. Why? Location on the Ohio River. [2022]