1988 Map of Hill Lake

About this map

Survey Valley defines the core of this Nebraska Sandhills landscape, where isolated ranching outposts are scattered across a complex terrain of dunes and depressions. The 1980s cattle-country economy is evidenced by family operations such as Sweeney Ranch in the northwest and the Curtis Ranch to the east. Water management remains central to life here, with the presence of Cotton Lake, Hill Lake, and numerous isolated Water Wells providing essential resources for livestock in this semi-arid environment. The map details the transition between township lines, specifically T 28 N T 27 N and T 27 N T 26 N, marking the legal boundaries of these vast grazing lands. Other local landmarks include the Henderson Ranch and the neighboring B Wright Ranch and Wright Ranch, illustrating the sparse but established settlement pattern of Cherry County during this era.