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1953 Map of Hermosa

Name: 1953 Topographic Map of Hermosa
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1980
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1980

About this map

Hermosa sits at the junction of rail and water in the mid-20th century, serving as a primary point of interest along the Chicago and North Western railroad line. The settlement's proximity to Battle Creek and the nearby reservoir highlights the importance of water management in this semi-arid South Dakota landscape. Local history and genealogy are anchored by the Cem and various Windmill sites that dot the surrounding ranch land.

The topography is defined by significant drainage systems, including Grace Coolidge Creek and the distinctively named L 7 Draw. While the railroad provides a vertical spine through the center of the sheet, the presence of a Gravel Pit and numerous windmills suggests a rural economy tied to extraction and livestock. The map also records the boundary between Pennington Co and Custer Co, which cuts across the northern terrain.