1963 Map of Callo Padrones

About this map

Large cattle pastures and oil extraction efforts define the landscape along the Brooks and Hidalgo County line in the early 1960s. The map illustrates a transitional ranching economy where traditional grazing lands like Mineral Pasture, Maguelles Pasture, and Quit Eria Pasture share space with the burgeoning Santa Fe Oil Field and South Santa Fe Oil Field. This survey provides a precise look at the critical water infrastructure necessary for survival in this South Texas environment, documenting numerous named windmills and artesian features such as Chorro Well and Viboras Well. The Huisaches Alton Ranch stands as the primary settlement hub, while the natural hydrology is marked by the eponymous Callo Padrones and Laguna del Toro Prieto. The presence of several Quarries and scattered Drill Holes further underscores the industrial activity of the era.