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1966 Map of North Curtis Ranch

Name: 1966 Topographic Map of North Curtis Ranch
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1968
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1968

About this map

Isolated ranching operations and water infrastructure define this mid-1960s landscape in Martin County. The cattle-driven economy of the High Plains is evident through a dense network of named water sources and windmills, including Broke Leg Windmill and the colorfully named Powder Puff Windmill. While North Curtis Ranch and Glass Ranch serve as primary hubs, the terrain is also marked by modern industrial development, such as the Radio Tower Relay and multiple pipelines crossing the plains.

Groundwater management was critical for sustaining livestock in this arid region, as evidenced by the distribution of structures like Billy Pees Windmill and Windmill No 12. The presence of a Landing Area suggests the vast distances required light aircraft for ranch management. Natural features are scarce but significant, centered on the drainage of Mustang Draw and the elevation of Range Hill near the northeastern corner of the survey area.