1968 Map of Martin Draw

About this map

The Canadian River cuts through the northern edge of this high-plains landscape, where the border between New Mexico and Texas meets the boundary of Quay and Oldham counties. This arid ranching territory is defined by a critical network of water improvements named for the families and landmarks that relied on them, such as the Sissy Windmill, Snake Windmill, and Smithers Windmill. The terrain drops from open plateaus into carved features like Rana Canyon and Martin Draw, which channel seasonal runoff toward the river. Historically significant transit points are marked by Stagecoach Gap and Texas Gap, suggesting the natural routes used to navigate the breaks in the plains. The presence of Howdy Ranch and the Ship Windmills illustrates the dispersed nature of habitation in this region during the late 1960s.