1979 Map of Cook Creek North

About this map

Thurston Canyon and the surrounding high desert terrain define this West Texas landscape in the late 1970s. The northern portion of the map is dominated by the Southern Pacific rail line and a prominent Old Railroad Grade, tracing the historical movement of steam and diesel through these drainages. Human activity is concentrated along these transport corridors and the diagonal path of Highway 90. Isolated outposts like the Rock House Ranch and the small Cem near the canyon rim offer a look into the ranching and local history of this Terrell County region. To the south, the landscape is carved by seasonal waterways including Cook Creek, Cedar Creek, and Cow Creek. Landmarks such as Cedar Station and various Gravel Pits indicate the utility of the land, while a solitary Radio Tower and several Wells dot the expansive plateaus between the deep-cut canyons of Palma Canyon and Meyers Canyon.