1979 Map of Horsethief Draw

About this map

Horsethief Cave sits within a landscape defined by deep drainage patterns and seasonal water sources in western Kansas. This 1970s topographical survey captures the remote character of Wallace County, where the terrain is carved by Horsethief Draw, Meyers Draw, and the prominent Salt Grass Canyon. The hydrology is dominated by the branching systems of Middle Fork Lake Creek and South Fork Lake Creek to the north, while the southern portion of the sheet features Goose Creek and the localized Big Lagoon. Evidence of early land use and human presence is sparse but specific, marked by a lone Grave near the center of the quadrangle and a series of wells and drill holes, such as McLane No 2, indicating the reach of ranching and resource exploration into these high plains draws.