1918 Map of Dryden Crossing

About this map

The Rio Grande carves the international boundary on this 1917 survey, defining the rugged border between the United States and Mexico in Terrell County. The landscape is dominated by a complex network of canyons and drainages, most notably Sanderson Canyon and Mc Clain Canyon, which snake through the Cable Hills and Shafter Hills. This era of rangeland history is marked by isolated outposts such as Catlin Ranch and Miller Ranch, connected by primitive thoroughfares like the Shafter Crossing Road. Significant for local history, the map identifies critical water sources in an arid environment, including Black Water Hole, Blue Water Hole, and Middle Watering. The placement of Loma Vista and Johnson Ranch reflects the sparse but strategic settlement pattern of the Texas Big Bend region during the early twentieth century.