1950 Map of Conata SW

About this map

The Pine Ridge Indian Reservation landscape is defined by the sharp topographic contrasts of the South Dakota Badlands as they appeared during this 1950 field check. The drainage pattern of the Missouri River Basin is clearly visible here, as Redwater Creek and Medicine Root Creek carve deep, complex arterial systems through the high plains. The map records the historical political boundary between Shannon Co and Washabaugh Co, cutting across a terrain of high ridges and intricate draws. Further south, Mud Creek winds through the lower elevations, highlighting the remote nature of the territory before modern development. This survey was conducted as part of the Department of the Interior's efforts to document the Missouri River Basin, providing a precise look at the hydrology and landforms that shaped life in this corner of the reservation.