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1956 Map of Goodland

Name: 1956 Topographic Map of Goodland
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1956
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1956

About this map

The high plains of Northwest Kansas are defined here by a series of roughly parallel river systems that cut through the flat agricultural landscape. The South Fork Republican River flows through the northwest corner near St Francis, while the North Fork Sappa Creek and South Fork Sappa Creek converge toward Atwood. In the south, the Smoky Hill River and North Fork Smoky Hill River frame the corridor followed by the Union Pacific railroad, connecting towns like Oakley and Grinnell.

This mid-century survey reveals an economy deeply rooted in grain production and transportation. Essential infrastructure including a grain elevator and radio tower are noted, supporting the small agricultural centers that dot the grid-like road network. The map also highlights unique terrain features such as the Arikaree Breaks and various canyons like Wildcat Canyon and Bell Canyon, which break the level horizon of the prairie.