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1970 Map of Hillburn City

Name: 1970 Topographic Map of Hillburn City
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1972
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1972

About this map

Morton Field and a network of energy infrastructure define this section of the High Plains in the early 1970s. The landscape is characterized by a sparse but systematic industrial presence, where numerous Oil Wells and Drill Holes are connected by a prominent Pipeline running through the southern half of the quadrangle. This pattern reflects the mid-century intensification of petroleum exploration across Lea County.

Water management in this arid environment is marked by named landmarks like West Jim Windmill, Crosbys Windmill, and Lea Windmill, which served as critical points for cattle ranching amidst the oil derricks. Several Gravel Pits are also noted, indicating local material extraction for road building or industrial pads. The map captures a moment when traditional ranching and modern resource extraction operated side-by-side on the Llano Estacado.