1971 Map of Paynes Corner

About this map

North Riley Oil Field and the Riley Oil Field dominate this West Texas landscape, illustrating the intensive petroleum development characteristic of Gaines County in the early 1970s. The terrain is marked by a dense network of unimproved roads and pipelines connecting numerous individual wells. Centered on the crossroads of Paynes Corner, the map reveals a technical landscape where industrial infrastructure like the Riley Gas Plant, a Radio Tower, and various Gravel Pits are the primary landmarks. Natural features are scarce, defined primarily by the winding path of Seminole Draw which cuts across the central portion of the quadrangle. This survey, based on 1970 aerial photography, provides a clear view of the Doss Robertson Oil Field and the supporting utility network of substations and storage bins that powered the regional energy economy.