1948 Map of Seneca

About this map

The Middle Loup River carves a path through the Nebraska Sandhills, defining the southern landscape where the settlement of Seneca serves as a local hub. This mid-century survey illustrates a ranching economy organized around valley systems like Rose Valley, Dry Valley, and Barent Valley. The Chicago Burlington and Quincy railroad parallels the river, connecting small rail stops at Kelso and Quincy. For those researching family history in the region, the map identifies numerous family-named properties, including the Simonson and Lowe Ranch, Metz Ranch, and Van Dusen Ranch. Cultural landmarks from the era of rural school districts are visible, such as Virginia Sch and Huddle Sch, alongside the isolated James Cem. The terrain is characterized by the unique topography of the sandhills, with notable elevations like Giant Hill rising above the valley floors and scattered water bodies such as Swan Lake providing essential resources for the cattle operations that dominated the area.