1952 Map of Oacoma

About this map

Missouri River and White River bottomlands define the landscape of this mid-century survey, captured just as the Missouri River Basin development program began to reshape the region. The map provides critical data for the forthcoming Fort Randall Reservoir, with dashed blue lines indicating areas destined to be submerged at the 1375-foot elevation mark. This includes the riverbed surrounding Bice Island and Bird Island. The town of Oacoma is a focal point, situated at the junction of the Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific railroad and the river crossing. Local land use is documented through several named agricultural properties, such as Sharp Ranch, Lindly Ranch, and Reese Ranch. Other landmarks include the Oacoma Cem and an Inactive Mine, while the winding courses of American Crow Creek and Big Creek cut through the breaks above the river valley.