1950 Map of Barkman

About this map

Red River meanders across the borderlands between Arkansas and Texas, carving a complex landscape of oxbow lakes and shifting channels. This mid-century survey reveals the hydraulic character of the region, where the river's former paths remain as named features like The Old Sag, Old River Lake, and Roseborough Lake. The boundary between Arkansas and Texas follows the river's winding course, while the southern portion of the map shows the transition into more stable settlement patterns. Rural life is anchored by local landmarks such as St Lukes Ch and Mt Zion Ch, while the community of Barkman sits near the banks of McKinney Bayou. The intricate drainage network is further shaped by the Diversion Canal and numerous smaller water bodies like Grassy Lake and Rush Lake, reflecting the constant management of this flood-prone river bottom environment.