Loading map...

1956 Map of Mercedes

Name: 1956 Topographic Map of Mercedes
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1984
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1984

About this map

The Missouri Pacific railroad forms the spine of the Lower Rio Grande Valley landscape, connecting the urban centers of Weslaco and Mercedes. This region is defined by an intricate network of irrigation and flood control, featuring the massive North Floodway, the Pilot Channel, and various elevated canals that supported the area's agricultural expansion. Local educational institutions like the Texas College of Arts and Industries and Valley Grande Academy stand alongside numerous community schools, reflecting the mid-century growth of these South Texas towns.

Water management is central to the terrain, with Campacuas Lake and the Arroyo Colorado winding through the southern reaches. Cultural landmarks such as Highland Memorial Cemetery and the Memorial Old Folks Home provide valuable touchpoints for genealogists. The northeastern corner transitions into the Lacy-Mercedes gas field, where the presence of the Gas Field and individual gas wells signals the intersection of the region's ranching roots with the developing energy industry.