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1971 Map of McKenzie Butte

Name: 1971 Topographic Map of McKenzie Butte
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1974
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1974

About this map

Custer National Forest encompasses much of this northwestern South Dakota landscape, where the South Cave Hills rise above a network of gulches and canyons. The 1971 survey documents a remote ranching and resource-extraction area centered around the Jones settlement. Several family-named landmarks such as John Brown Spring No 2, Penttila Butte, and Van Offern Butte indicate the importance of water sources and high-ground navigation to local homesteaders and landholders.

Resource development is evident through the presence of the Hilton Mine, a Gravel Pit, and isolated Oil Wells. The spiritual life of the area is anchored by the Cave Hills Ch, while natural features like McKenzie Butte and Sheep Mountain define the horizon. Water management is critical in this environment, shown by various developed springs and drainages including Bozelder Creek and the aptly named Holdup Canyon.