1957 Map of Boland Ridge

About this map

Wind Cave National Park occupies the northwestern corner of this landscape, where the high elevations of Boland Ridge overlook a network of seasonal drainages and geological formations. The topographic data, compiled in part for the United States Atomic Energy Commission, reveals a transition from the protected parklands into the managed ranching and transport corridors of Custer County. The Chicago and North Western railroad cuts a distinctive path through the eastern half of the map, following the contours near Lame Johnny Creek. This rail line was vital for connecting the Black Hills to broader markets during the mid-20th century. Notable terrain features such as Unkpapa Peak and Buffalo Gap mark the southern reaches, providing clear landmarks for tracing historic property lines or exploring the drainage patterns of Beaver Creek and Fuson Canyon.