1960 Map of Sand Mountain

About this map

The Nueces River carves through the northeast corner of this 1960 landscape, where the Smyth Crossing provided a key river passage near the Anthon Ranch and Barkly Ranch. This South Texas terrain is defined by a ranching and railroad economy, with the Missouri Pacific railroad line cutting diagonally across the brushland. Dozens of man-made water sources, such as Mustang Tank, Cow Camp Tank, and Railroad Tank, illustrate the critical infrastructure required for livestock in this semi-arid region. Prominent landmarks like Wagon Top and Sand Mountain rise above the drainage systems of Mustang Creek and Turkey Creek. The map also reveals the operational layout of the era with features like the Smyth Station, various windmills including the Kieffer Windmill, and a dedicated Landing Area for light aircraft.