1893 Map of Big Springs

About this map

Big Springs stands as the central landmark of this high plains landscape at the end of the 19th century. Surveyed by A.H. Thompson and Willard D. Johnson, the map reveals a sparsely populated territory where early ranching outposts like Galloway Ranch and Hancock Ranch provided the primary human footprint. The topography is defined by the drainage patterns of Black Squirrel Creek and Horse Creek, which cut through the terrain below the Holcolm Hills. This early reconnaissance survey captures the region before extensive modern development, documenting the isolated settlements of Holtwold and Crows Roost that once served as vital stopovers for travelers and stockmen moving through the intersection of El Paso and Elbert counties.