1985 Map of Ponca City

About this map

Ponca City and its industrial surroundings define this mid-1980s landscape at the northern edge of Oklahoma. The map documents a territory heavily influenced by petroleum and transportation, shown through extensive Oil and Gas Fields and the converging tracks of the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe and Chicago Rock Island and Pacific railroads. The wandering paths of the Arkansas River and the Salt Fork Arkansas River cut across the plains, creating distinctive terrain such as Whitworth Bend. Cultural and educational landmarks are prominent, including Northern Oklahoma Junior College in Tonkawa and the northern settlement of Newkirk. From the smaller village of Old Bliss to the hub at Blackwell, the map provides a clear picture of the region's mid-century development and rural-to-urban transition.