1961 Map of De Graff

About this map

The West Branch Walnut River and its various tributaries carve a winding path through Butler County, defining the early 1960s landscape of the Lincoln and Chelsea townships. Small rural centers and community infrastructure are concentrated near these watercourses, including the settlement of De Graff along the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad. Local history is anchored by several country schools like Cole Creek Sch and West Branch Sch, along with family-linked landmarks such as Ridgeway Cem. The map illustrates a transition in regional transportation, showing the established rail corridor and the diagonal path of the Kansas Toll Road Turnpike cutting across the prairies. Numerous Oil Wells and a Quarry near the Walnut River indicate the importance of resource extraction to the local economy during this era.