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1957 Map of Abilene West

Name: 1957 Topographic Map of Abilene West
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1987
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1987

About this map

Dyess Air Force Base dominates the western landscape of this mid-century survey, its expansive runways and military reservation boundary defining the edge of the expanding city. The urban core of Abilene pushes westward, shown with purple revisions that highlight the growth of residential subdivisions and institutional landmarks like McMurry College and the West Texas Rehabilitation Center. The transportation network relies on the Missouri Pacific railroad and Interstate 20, which facilitate movement between the downtown area and the outlying settlements of Tye and Caps.

Along the winding corridors of Elm Creek and Cat Claw Creek, the map captures the transition from dense city blocks to rural gravel pits and agricultural reaches. Notable local history landmarks include the Little Elm Cemetery and several community schools such as Bonham Sch and Crockett Sch. This 1987 update reveals the late-century infill of shopping centers and modern infrastructure, including a Drive-in Theater and a Compressor Station, amidst the established neighborhood churches.