Loading map...

1969 Map of Cross

Name: 1969 Topographic Map of Cross
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1984
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1984

About this map

Cross and the neighboring Franklin Ranch anchor this MCMullen County landscape at the end of the 1960s, a period defined by the convergence of ranching and petroleum interests. The terrain is deeply incised by the drainage systems of San Miguel Creek and Bill Walker Creek, which are supported by a complex network of artificial water sources such as Beulah Tank, Indian Tank, and Lone Star Tank. These "tanks" or stock ponds, often bearing evocative local names like Rocking Chair Tank and Birthday Tank, illustrate the critical importance of water management in this arid cattle country.

Energy infrastructure is evident through several scattered oil fields, an Oil Well, and a traversing Pipeline. The rural character is further preserved in the presence of the Cross Cem, providing a focal point for genealogical research. Smaller features like the Landing Strip and Gaging Sta near the creeks suggest the logistical and scientific monitoring required for this remote Texas environment during the mid-century.