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1984 Map of Fortune Bend

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

USGS Topo · Published 1984

About this map

Morris Sheppard Dam anchors the landscape of this Palo Pinto County region, holding back the waters of Possum Kingdom Lake. The topography is defined by the winding course of the Brazos River, which carves dramatic loops including Fortune Bend, Frank Harris Bend, and Gaines Bend. These river meanders create isolated pockets of land, often dominated by prominent elevations such as Schoolhouse Mountain and Crawford Mountain.

Genealogists and local historians can trace the intricate network of canyons and waterways that shaped early ranching and land use, from Hells Gate at the lake's edge to the remote drainages of Ioni Creek and Jewell Creek. The map documents the intersection of modern hydroelectric infrastructure with traditional Texas landmarks like Antelope Mountain, illustrating how the mid-century creation of the reservoir altered the accessibility and character of the Palo Pinto backcountry.