1966 Map of Fort Howes

About this map

The Fort Howes (Historical Site) anchors this mid-century survey of the rugged cattle country along the Rosebud and Powder River county line. As a central point in the Custer National Forest, the area is defined by a complex network of ephemeral drainages and vital water improvements necessary for ranching in this arid landscape. Numerous man-made features like the Simon Reservoir, Dunning Reservoir, and Coal Creek Reservoir are scattered throughout the hills, alongside dozens of named springs such as Paget Spring No 1 and Gate Creek Spring No 1. The presence of the Otter Creek Sch and the Fort Howes Ranger Station along the banks of Otter Creek indicates the social and administrative hubs of this sparsely populated range during the late 1960s.