1914 Map of San Juan

About this map

The Rio Grande defines the serpentine southern border of this 1914 survey, winding past the United States Mexico boundary line. In the northern half of the quadrangle, the growing irrigation and rail network is evident as the St Louis Brownsville And Mexico railroad connects the early town centers of McAllen, Pharr, San Juan, and Donna. The grid systems of these settlements stand in sharp contrast to the wandering paths of the abandoned river channels or resacas, such as Resaca de las Sardinas and Resaca de la Donna. Large-scale agricultural development is anchored by the Valley View Plantation and an extensive Canal system, while the Military Road follows the river's path, providing a vital link between the Rio Grande and San Antonio Branch railroad and the various river crossings near East Donna.