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1958 Map of Great Bend

Name: 1958 Topographic Map of Great Bend
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1959
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1959

About this map

The Arkansas River serves as the primary geographical anchor for this 1958 survey, with the city of Great Bend established on its northern banks. The landscape shows a distinct transition from the dense urban grid of the city, characterized by numerous educational and civic landmarks like the Court House, St Rose Hospital, and schools such as Harrison Jr High Sch and Washington Sch, to the agricultural and industrial plains of Barton and Stafford Counties. The Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad bisects the terrain, illustrating the critical transportation corridor that fueled the region's development.

Energy extraction is evident throughout the rural sections, with numerous Oil Wells dotting the landscape south of the river in South Bend and Lincoln townships. Rare cultural markers, such as the County Home and a Drive-in Theater, provide insights into mid-century social infrastructure. Water management is noted through the extensive Levee system protecting the city and the Great Bend Airport from the river's seasonal shifts.