1961 Map of Sand Lake

About this map

The Pecos River carves a winding path along the eastern boundary of this West Texas landscape, marking the natural divide between Reeves and Ward counties. This early 1960s survey documents a region defined by industrial extraction and sparse infrastructure, where the Panhandle and Santa Fe railroad runs parallel to the river valley. The presence of the Two Freds Oil Field and numerous quarries and drill holes indicates a period of active resource development. Local history is anchored by modest landmarks like the Patrole Sch and the Lara Cem, while the namesake Sand Lake provides a rare hydrology point in this arid terrain. The map's detail, including checked fence lines and numerous wells, illustrates the transition from traditional ranching to the mid-century energy economy.