1969 Map of Dutch Henry Coulee

About this map

The Marias River carves a deep, winding path through this northern Montana landscape, defining the northern and eastern reaches of the territory. The terrain is dominated by high-plains topography dissected by significant drainage systems, most notably Dutch Henry Coulee and Fourmile Coulee. These coulees create a complex network of breaks and ridges that contrast sharply with the flatter tablelands. Human presence is sparse, centered primarily around the small settlement of Shepard, located in the western portion of the quadrangle. The map also delineates the administrative boundary between Hill County and Chouteau County, which runs through the center of the survey. This 1969 field check captures the area's transition from open range to documented cadastral units, showing the section lines and fence lines that had begun to organize the cattle country and dryland farm acreage of the era.