1950 Map of Longfellow Lake

About this map

Longfellow Lake and a dense network of smaller basins characterize this corner of the Nebraska Sandhills, where dozens of named valleys and shallow lakes occupy the depressions between dunes. The landscape in the mid-20th century was defined by a scattered ranching infrastructure, evidenced by numerous numbered schoolhouses such as School No 22 and School No 32 serving the remote population. The southwestern portion of the sheet includes part of the Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge, highlighting the region's importance for migratory birds and water resources in an arid environment. Topographical features like Wild Horse Flats and Hog Valley suggest a heritage of livestock and wildlife, while specific sites like Dipping Vat Lake point to the practical necessities of the early cattle industry. The presence of multiple lakes named for individuals, including R Kincaid Lake and Mar Lake, provides a record of early landholders across the Garden and Grant county line.