1957 Map of Butcher Hill

About this map

Custer State Park and the northern fringe of Wind Cave National Park meet in this 1950s survey, revealing a landscape defined by sharp ridges and seasonal drainages. The Chicago and North Western railroad cuts through the eastern half of the quadrangle, running parallel to the winding course of French Creek. The map documents a shifting educational landscape of the era, noting both the active Dry Creek Sch and defunct institutions like Fairview Sch and French Creek Sch. Topographical landmarks such as Butcher Hill, Racetrack Butte, and Cobb Ridge dominate the horizon, while cattle and ranching heritage is suggested by features like Jolly Flats and the canyon networks of Bobcat Canyon and Gordon Canyon. This detail provides a rare look at the rural infrastructure of Custer County before modern development altered the footprint of these historic school districts.