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1954 Map of Saint Onge

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Saint Onge
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1959
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1959

About this map

The Belle Fourche Reservoir and its massive irrigation infrastructure dominate the northern landscape of this mid-century Western South Dakota survey. A complex network of water management features, including the Inlet Canal, South Lateral, and Indian Creek Lateral, supports the agricultural valley surrounding Nisland and Fruitdale. These engineering works were central to the region’s development, feeding the thirsty lands bordering the Belle Fourche River.

South of the river, the terrain rises toward the Black Hills, marked by prominent landmarks like Saint Onge Peak and Baldy Peak. For genealogists and local historians, the map preserves a dense record of rural social centers, including numerous country schools like Dane Christian Sch and Asbury Sch. The presence of the Chicago and North Western railroad line connects the small settlements of Snoma and Saint Onge, while several local graveyards, including the Danish Cem, provide specific points of interest for family history research.