1965 Map of Mc Ginnis Butte

About this map

McGinnis Butte rises as a prominent landmark in this segment of Garfield County, anchoring a landscape defined by the drainage networks of Big Dry Creek and McGinnis Creek. The terrain is characterized by the complex erosion patterns typical of eastern Montana, with named features such as Peterson Coulee and Dry Coulee cutting through the upland plains. This mid-1960s survey, updated with late-1970s aerial data, reveals the isolated nature of local water sources, identifying specific points like Peterson Spring and Geyser Spring that were critical for ranching and livestock in the semi-arid environment. Human activity is sparsely recorded through the presence of various Drill Holes, suggesting exploratory resource interest. The geography is further delineated by Gumbo Ridge and Calf Creek, illustrating the localized nomenclature used by residents to navigate the breaks and ridges of the Missouri River plateau.