1939 Map of La Reforma

About this map

Large cattle ranches and early petroleum exploration define this South Texas landscape along the Starr Co Hidalgo Co line. Originally surveyed by the Eighth Engineers in 1939, the map reveals a transition from traditional ranching estates like Bella Vista Ranch and Santa Elena to industrial development at the Sun Oil Field. Small rural hubs such as Delmita, Arkansas City, and Puerto Rico appear as tight clusters of structures along unpaved roads, supporting a population centered on agricultural and oil labor. The terrain slopes gently toward the Rio Grande Valley to the south, characterized by numerous windmills (WT) and small watering tanks essential for livestock in this semi-arid region. Educational and community focal points are scarce, with the Sam Lane School serving as one of the few named public landmarks in this expansive ranching corridor.