1950 Map of Herman Ranch

About this map

The Emigrant Trail cuts a diagonal path across this high plains landscape, marking the historic westward migration route as it follows the drainage of Cottonwood Creek. Published in the mid-20th century but based on earlier field checks, this map captures the transition of the Platte County terrain from pioneer passage to established ranching operations. Isolated gravesites and an Oregon Trail Marker stand as quiet reminders of the 19th-century travelers who once moved parallel to what became the Colorado and Southern railroad line.