1966 Map of Samuelson Ranch

About this map

Custer National Forest encompasses the western heights of this region, where the rugged drainages of Winter Gulch and Titus Gulch define the high desert topography. This 1966 field-checked survey reveals a sparsely settled landscape centered on the Samuelson Ranch, illustrating the remote ranching operations and essential water management required in this corner of Montana. The importance of reliable water sources is evident in the numerous features such as Manning Spring, Cain Spring, and the Cain Well, which sustained livestock and homesteads across the drainage of Pumpkin Creek. The presence of the Camps Pass Sch south of the ranch provides a glimpse into the rural community infrastructure that served isolated families. As the map was photorevised in 1985, it documents the transition of secondary road networks and small-scale land use like the Gravel Pit during the latter half of the 20th century.