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1983 Map of Olson Coulee North

Name: 1983 Topographic Map of Olson Coulee North
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1983
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1983

About this map

The rolling plains and drainage systems of Dawson County define this 1983 topographic study, revealing a landscape dominated by seasonal waterways and rugged coulees. A notable site of local interest is the small Cem located in the western portion of the map, providing a potential focal point for genealogists researching rural family burials in this corner of Montana. The map is primarily characterized by the winding paths of Corral Creek and its many tributaries, alongside Brush Coulee and Bluff Creek to the northeast.

The intricate network of dry washes and gullies suggests a region shaped by sudden runoff, with features like Stilson Coulee, Olson Coulee, and Sioux Creek cutting through the terrain. These natural features dictated the early settlement patterns and cattle-grazing routes in an area where water sources were the primary driver of human activity. The presence of numerous unimproved roads and trails connects isolated sections of the plains, reflecting the logistical challenges of ranching life in the late twentieth century.