1956 Map of Laredo

About this map

Laredo stands as the primary hub along the Rio Grande in this mid-century survey, which documents the extensive oil and ranching landscape of South Texas. The map illustrates a region transitioning from its traditional rail-based economy to one dominated by petroleum extraction and Cold War aviation. The Texas and Mexican RR and the Missouri Pacific RR provide the backbone for transit, connecting smaller outposts like Hebbronville, San Diego, and Alice. Military operations are prominent near the border, anchored by Laredo AFB and its outlying landing strips, Laredo AFB Aux Field No 1 and Laredo AFB Aux Field No 2. Further east, the terrain is defined by massive petroleum operations such as the Seeligson Oil Field and Government Wells Oil Field, while the southern reaches show the emerging waters of the Falcon Reservoir.