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1958 Map of Bear Creek

Name: 1958 Topographic Map of Bear Creek
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1960
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1960

About this map

Sam Houston National Forest covers much of this mid-century landscape in San Jacinto County, where timber and early oil exploration define the local economy. The terrain is intricately carved by a dense network of waterways, including Winters Bayou and the East Fork San Jacinto River, which create a complex drainage pattern through the woodland. Rural community life centers on small landmarks like Oak Grove and several country churches including Magnolia Ch and Pleasant Grove Ch.

Evidence of industry is scattered throughout the forest, from the Mercy Field oil area to various Gravel Pits. Local infrastructure is represented by Hill Store Road and numerous oil wells, providing a look at the transition between traditional forest use and resource extraction. Genealogists may find interest in the Purkerson Cem, one of the few named burial sites within this heavily wooded quadrangle.